Belize has achieved a significant milestone by being certified as malaria-free by the World Health Organization (WHO), marking the culmination of more than 70 years of relentless efforts to eradicate the disease. This accomplishment adds Belize to the list of 42 countries and 1 territory worldwide, including 11 nations in the Americas, that have achieved malaria-free status.
Belize's remarkable achievement in malaria elimination is the result of dedicated endeavors spanning three decades. The country has effectively reduced its malaria cases from a peak of approximately 10,000 cases in 1994 to zero indigenous cases in 2019. The success story is underpinned by robust malaria surveillance, accessible diagnostic services, and efficient vector control measures, such as the utilization of insecticide-treated mosquito nets and indoor insecticide spraying. Trained community health workers have played a pivotal role in ensuring prompt diagnosis and treatment.
In 2015, Belize strategically redirected its malaria program to intensify surveillance among high-risk populations, enabling targeted interventions and optimal resource allocation to priority areas. Even during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, Belize maintained its commitment to malaria surveillance and took steps to integrate malaria and COVID-19 surveillance systems.
The WHO certification of malaria elimination holds immense significance as it officially acknowledges a country's malaria-free status. This recognition is conferred when a nation provides robust, credible evidence of the interruption of indigenous malaria transmission by Anopheles mosquitoes across the entire country for a minimum of three consecutive years.
Belize's achievement as a malaria-free nation is a cause for celebration not only for the country but for humanity as a whole. It exemplifies the potential for rigorous efforts, strategic planning, and community engagement to conquer diseases that have plagued societies for centuries. This victory underscores the positive impact of international collaboration and sustained commitment to global health goals.
Source: News release. WHO. "Belize certified malaria-free by WHO". https://www.who.int/news/item/21-06-2023-belize-certified-malaria-free-by-who. 21 June 2023. [Accessed: 24 June 2023].
Edited by Aditya Balachander
Kommentare