‘Zero malaria starts with me’ WHO urges public responsibility on World Day
‘Zero malaria starts with me’ WHO urges public responsibility on World Day
Malaria
By Cecilia Ologunagba
Abuja, April 25, 2020 (NAN) The World Health Organisation (WHO) Office in Nigeria, Abuja on Saturday urged Nigerians to take responsibility by testing and treating themselves for malaria.
The United Nations (UN) health agency gave the advice at its official twitter account @WHONigeria to commemorate the World Malaria Day
The World Malaria Day is an international observance commemorated every year on 25 April and recognises global efforts to control malaria.
Globally, 3.3 billion people in 106 countries are at risk of malaria.
“Today, as the world commemorates World Malaria Day 2020, WHO urges all to take responsibility: Zero Malaria Starts with Me.
“Your fever could be malaria; Get tested!
“Sleeping inside insecticide treated mosquito nets is one of the most effective ways to prevent Malaria Day
“Prompt testing and treatment of malaria is essential to prevent progression to severe disease or death.
“In many settings, community-based health workers play a key role in preventing, detecting and treating malaria.’’
The twitter page quoted Dr Fiona Braka, Officer-in-Charge of WHO in Nigeria, as saying: “Today, I join WHO to responsibility. Zero malaria starts with me.’’
Similarly, in a tweet by WHO African Regional Office in Brazzaville, Congo @WHOAFRO urged people to get tested for malaria to prevent death.
According to the agency, malaria kills 400,000 people every year and 94 per cent of deaths occur in the WHO African Region.
“Four Children under five years are the most vulnerable group, accounting for 67 per cent of deaths.
“We must achieve a malaria free Africa.’’
In addition, the agency said that Malawi was the first country in the world to introduce malaria vaccine.
“One year ago, Malawi became the first country in the world to introduce a malaria vaccine to young children through routine immunisation as part of a landmark pilot programme in Ghana, Kenya and Malawi,’’ it said (NAN)
CIA/GOM/ABI
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Edited by Gregg Mmaduakolam/Ali Baba-Inuwa