Attacking malaria on several fronts proving a success

A multi-agency approach employing a variety of techniques coupled with a greater local engagement is reducing malaria in Senegal, writes Shamas-ur-Rehman Toor.

Malaria has long been one of the major killer diseases of our age. World Health Organisation data show up to half of the world’s population is at risk. However, roughly 90% of malaria cases and 92% of malaria deaths take place in just one region: Sub-Saharan Africa.

Europe and north America live completely free of malaria. However, children in Sub-Saharan Africa often suffer through multiple bouts of the disease before they reach the age of five. And children below the age of five account for 70% of malaria-related deaths. Pregnant women who contract the disease can suffer serious health complications.