World Malaria Day - 25 April 2016

25 Apr 2016

Globally around 3.2 billion people – nearly half of the world’s population – are at risk of malaria. During 2015, there were approximately 214 million cases and 438 000 deaths from malaria. Most cases and deaths occur in sub-Saharan Africa.

In the UK there are approximately 1400–1800 imported cases of malaria and an average of 7 deaths annually. Most cases are in travellers who have been to Africa, particularly West Africa. A disproportionate number of cases are in travellers visiting friends and relatives.

fitfortravel malaria advice and maps are produced based on the recommendations of the Scottish Malaria Advisory Group. In recent years, this review has resulted in downgrading of risk for some countries, mostly in south-east Asia and central and south America. Malaria risk in Africa remains significant.

Each year, WHO and partners unite around a common World Malaria Day theme. The theme this year is End Malaria for Good, through:

• Reducing the rate of new malaria cases by at least 90%.
• Reducing malaria deaths by at least 90%.
• Eliminating malaria in at least 35 countries.

On World Malaria Day the commitment of WHO and partners is to highlight advances in malaria control and to commit to continued investment and action to accelerate progress against this deadly disease.

• Further information on World Malaria Day 2016.