World Malaria Day 2011

As another World Malaria Day approaches the Canadian Red Cross continues to be a part of a global campaign in the fight against one of the world’s most deadly – and preventable diseases.

Between 2008-2010 almost 290 million long-lasting insecticide treated nets (LLINs) have been delivered in sub-Saharan Africa. Despite this massive effort to combat the disease it is estimated that more than 781,000 will die of Malaria this year – the majority being children under five.

The Canadian Red Cross has long been involved in all facets of Malaria eradication and specifically has worked in countries such as Kenya, Liberia, and Mali with local health authorities and Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies to reach the most vulnerable populations.

The current net distribution campaign in Liberia is an example of the type of work currently underway to fight the disease and is the result of the combined hard work of partner organizations in Canada and around the world.  The nets, provided by USAID, are being distributed by the Liberian Red Cross with the Canadian Red Cross providing logistical and technical support.

The nets, often carried by volunteers on foot for many kilometres, are reaching some of the most remote areas of Liberia.

In total more than 400,000 nets will go to homes and communities where they are most needed – and provide a key defence against this deadly preventable disease. The nets are allocated to specific “sleeping spaces” to ensure that all beds can be protected. Each net is then personally installed by a Liberian Red Cross volunteer.

A major factor in malaria prevention is the proven method of distributing mosquito nets through mass distribution campaigns and ensuring recipients know the importance of nightly use and maintenance. Since 2002, working in partnership with Ministries of Health and other health agencies, Red Cross Red Crescent volunteers have helped protect over 25 million people with long lasting nets, saving an estimated 420, 750 lives.

Malaria is preventable and treatable with low cost interventions that include nets, insecticide and access to effective diagnosis and treatment within 24 hours of the onset of symptoms.

The fight against malaria is having a positive impact in Africa – but our work is far from over. The Canadian Red Cross continues to work closely with African Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies to provide communities with the education and tools needed to prevent and treat this deadly disease.

Click here for more information on our Africa malaria program.

Posted:  April 21, 2011