Malaria is preventable and treatable. Strengthened surveillance, better diagnosis, vaccines, and public awareness can save lives. Global efforts and social media campaigns can educate to combat this disease and protect vulnerable populations worldwide. @louisejenkins.bsky.social

Malaria vaccines, like RTS,S/AS01 (Mosquirix) and R21, offer hope in combating the disease, but the protection is modest 50- 80%,short- lived, and in high endemic areas lower in infants. Research on genetic diversity is crucial, as vaccines target viruses effectively, but rarely against protozoa.

Epidemiological surveillance is key to tracking and preventing malaria. Monitoring Plasmodium genetic mutations and improving diagnostic accuracy through research and technical adaptation are essential. Controlling malaria requires vaccines, mass drug administration, and preventive chemotherapies.

Children in developing countries, especially in Africa, face the highest malaria mortality. Malaria prevention during pregnancy reduces neonatal mortality and low birth weight. Full protection with IPTp(Intermittent Preventive Treatment in Pregnancy) and ITNs (Insecticide-Treated Nets) is vital.

Anaemia is a major health issue in Africa, especially in regions with stable malaria transmission and affecting pregnant women and infants. Prevention should prioritise these groups with integrated strategies to address its complex causes.

Malaria prevention faces hurdles due to genetic diversity in Plasmodiumspp.This impacts vaccine development and detection, where multiple types of mosquitoes spread the disease.Variations complicate control efforts, especially in regions with multiple Anopheles mosquito species driving local origin.

Drug resistance is a major issue. P. Falciparum parasites have developed resistance to antimalarial like Sulfadoxine/Pyrimethamine, leading to its withdrawal. While Artemisinin Combination Therapies (ACTs)work for uncomplicated malaria, emerging resistance in Southeast Asia threatens their efficacy.

Rapid malaria diagnostic tests are crucial, but challenges like resistance, false negatives, and pfhrp2/3 gene deletions complicate control efforts, particularly in Africa and Asia. The WHO recommends confirming parasites before treatment to improve accuracy and reduce unnecessary therapies.

Malaria remains a concern globally, with 4000 cases reported annually in countries like the UK and France. Travel restrictions during COVID-19 reduced cases, but rising trends now demand attention. Imported malaria highlights the need for better diagnosis and awareness , especially for travellers.

Malaria cases hit 247 million in 2022, mainly in Africa. The COVID-19 pandemic worsened the situation, disrupted prevention and early detection increasing deaths. Effective strategies, including better detection and access to treatment, are crucial to control this public health crisis.