World Malaria Day is observed annually on April 25 to raise awareness and rally global efforts toward eliminating malaria one of the deadliest yet preventable parasitic diseases. Malaria remains a major global health issue, with 263 million cases and nearly 6 lakh deaths reported in 2023 alone, as per WHO. Despite being both preventable and curable, the disease disproportionately affects tropical and low-income regions. This day aims to highlight progress, challenges, and the urgent need for reinvestment and innovation in the fight against malaria.
Date and Theme of World Malaria Day 2025
- Date: Observed every year on April 25
- Theme for 2025: “Malaria Ends With Us: Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite”
- This theme calls for grassroots action, renewed investment, and innovation to accelerate progress towards malaria elimination. It emphasizes that every individual, community, and policymaker plays a crucial role in eradicating malaria.
History of World Malaria Day
- The World Health Organization (WHO) established World Malaria Day in 2007 during its 60th World Health Assembly. It evolved from Africa Malaria Day, which was commemorated since 2001 to combat malaria in African nations.
- World Malaria Day was first formally observed in 2008, reflecting the global nature of the malaria threat and the worldwide effort to eliminate it.
Significance of World Malaria Day
- The day is a reminder of the global burden of malaria, especially in low-income and tropical countries. It draws attention to preventive measures, encourages early diagnosis and treatment, and promotes global collaboration.
- It honors healthcare workers, researchers, and communities engaged in malaria prevention and control.
- It urges governments and organizations to step up investments and policy action to fight malaria.
Malaria: Causes and Impact
- Malaria is caused by Plasmodium parasites and spread by the bite of the female Anopheles mosquito.
- It affects over 2 billion people globally, especially in 90 malaria-endemic countries and 125 million international tourists.
- If untreated, it can lead to severe anemia, cerebral malaria, coma, or death.
- Timely treatment typically results in quick recovery, but delayed action increases mortality risk.
Preventive Measures Against Malaria
- Use mosquito repellents with 20-35% DEET on exposed skin
- Wear long-sleeved clothes and trousers at night
- Sleep under mosquito nets
- Spray insecticides like pyrethrin in sleeping areas
- Prevent stagnant water accumulation near homes
- Always cover water storage containers