By Gabriel Olawale

Asclepius Consulting has called for more political commitment and investment towards malaria prevention and control even as it joins stakeholders in making a firm commitment to prevent and treatment of the disease.

World Malaria Day is observed on 25 April every year to raise awareness about the global effort to control and ultimately eradicate Malaria. The theme of World Malaria Day 2024 is ‘Accelerate the Fight Against Malaria for a More Equitable World’.

Speaking during this year World Malaria Day, Head of Client services, Asclepius Consulting, Dr. Tosin Longe, said that Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease caused by a parasite (Plasmodium falciparum) that commonly infects a certain type of mosquito (anopheles) which feeds on humans. People who get Malaria are typically very sick with symptoms like fevers, shaking chills, and flu-like illness.

He explained that, even though malaria can be a deadly disease, illness and death from Malaria can usually be prevented.

“The significance of World Malaria Day is to highlight the necessity of sustained political commitment and continued investment for Malaria prevention and control. The day also offers an opportunity to assess progress and identify areas where more needs to be done to reach global Malaria control targets.”

“It is hoped that World Malaria Day will raise awareness about the serious and sometimes fatal disease caused by a parasite that commonly infects certain types of mosquitoes that feed on humans. Malaria continues to endanger human health and cost lives, in the most vulnerable areas in countries like Nigeria and DRC.”