Release of World Malaria Report 2024
In News
What Happened
Why It Matters
Background
History & Context
What Changed
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Global case trajectory: BEFORE, global malaria cases were steadily declining or plateauing prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. NOW, the 2024 report documents a concerning resurgence, with cases rising from 252 million in 2022 to 263 million in 2023.
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Prevention technologies: BEFORE, standard pyrethroid-treated bed nets and indoor spraying were the primary large-scale vector control methods. NOW, next-generation insecticide-treated nets are being widely distributed, and 17 countries have successfully introduced malaria vaccines (like RTS,S and R21) into routine childhood immunization.
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Equity focus in reporting: BEFORE, annual WHO reports primarily evaluated aggregate national data and overall epidemiological trends. NOW, the 2024 report includes a first-ever dedicated chapter on health inequities, mandating targeted responses for marginalized groups such as indigenous peoples, migrants, and remote communities.
Prelims Angle
NCERT Connection
Practice Questions
Q1
Correct Statement(s)With reference to the World Malaria Report 2024, consider the following statements: 1. The WHO African Region accounts for more than 90% of global malaria deaths. 2. India accounts for nearly half of all malaria cases in the WHO South-East Asia Region. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?