“31% of global malaria deaths in 2021 occured in Nigeria” – WHO
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Nigeria represented 31% of all malaria fatalities globally in 2021.
The organization revealed this in its worldwide malaria report, which was released on Thursday.
As per the international health organization, malaria occurrences and deaths in 2021 remained consistent despite the ongoing impacts of COVID-19.
On a global scale, WHO reported 247 million instances of malaria and 619,000 fatalities from the disease in 2021, reflecting an increase of two million cases and a decrease of six million deaths since the pandemic began in 2019.
The report indicated that Nigeria was among four nations that contributed to nearly half of all cases worldwide and over half of all malaria fatalities.
“Twenty-nine nations were responsible for 96% of malaria cases globally, with four countries – Nigeria (27%), the Democratic Republic of the Congo (12%), Uganda (5%), and Mozambique (4%) – accounting for almost half of all cases globally,” the report states.
“Approximately 96% of malaria deaths globally occurred in 29 countries. Four countries were responsible for slightly more than half of all malaria fatalities globally in 2021: Nigeria (31%), the Democratic Republic of the Congo (13%), Niger (4%), and the United Republic of Tanzania (4%).”
According to the WHO, nations worldwide predominantly sidestepped additional interruptions to malaria prevention, testing, and treatment services in 2021, in contrast to 2020, when the COVID pandemic hindered malaria services, leading to a considerable rise in cases and fatalities.
“In 2021, nations distributed 223 million rapid diagnostic tests (RDT), which is comparable to the levels reported before the pandemic,” the statement notes.
“In 2021, the distribution of insecticide-treated nets (ITN) was robust overall and at levels similar to those before the pandemic: 171 million ITNs were planned for distribution, and 128 million (75%) were actually distributed.”
Following a significant rise in malaria instances and deaths during the initial year of the COVID-19 pandemic, affected nations intensified their efforts and managed to alleviate the most severe outcomes of COVID-related disruptions, according to WHO Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus.
“We confront numerous challenges, but there are many grounds for optimism. By enhancing the response, comprehending and addressing the risks, cultivating resilience, and accelerating research, there is ample reason to envision a malaria-free future,” he stated.
