Lauding progress being made against malaria in WHO South-East Asia Region, the World Health Organization today emphasized on continue concerted efforts by Member countries, focusing on the vulnerable population, to ensure equitable access to malaria prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

As per the World Malaria Report 2024, estimated malaria cases in the Region fell from 22.8 million in 2000 to 4 million in 2023 – a reduction of 82.4%. The Region, home to a quarter of the world’s population, accounted for 1.5% global malaria cases in 2023. Estimated malaria deaths in the Region fell by 82.9%, from 35 000 in 2000 to 6000 in 2023. More than 270 million malaria cases and 420 000 malaria deaths have been averted in the Region between 2000 and 2023.

“The progress follows highest ever political commitment by Member countries, matched by tangible actions and unstinted efforts over the years down to the sub-national level. However, accelerated efforts against malaria must continue  -  to eliminate the disease in countries where malaria persists, and to sustain the progress in countries where the disease is on the decline or has been eliminated,” said Saima Wazed, Regional Director WHO South-East Asia.