With the release last week of the WHO World Malaria Report 2022, we learn that Nigeria accounted for more than one quarter of all global malaria cases in 2021 (27 percent), followed by the D R of Congo, Uganda and Mozambique (another 19 percent combined). In all, 96 percent of the world’s malaria infections occurred in 29 countries, while four countries in the WHO African Region - Nigeria, DRC, Niger and Tanzania – had just over half of 2021’s global malaria deaths. In the other regions, those countries accounting for the majority of malaria cases in 2021 were Papua New Guinea (87 percent) in the Western Pacific, India (79 percent) in the SE Asian region, and Venezuela, Brazil and Colombia (more than 79 percent) in the Americas. The report also noted that in SE Asia, Malaysia in particular had experienced ‘a notable rise’ in human Plasmodium knowlesi infections. Lastly, Azerbaijan, Belize, Cabo Verde, Iran and Tajikistan have all ‘submitted an official request for malaria free certification’. Read more
Advice for travellers
Travellers visiting malarious regions should discuss their itinerary and the possible need for anti-malaria medication during a pre-travel medical consultation. Read more about malaria.
Before you travel, call Travelvax Australia’s telephone advisory service on 1300 360 164 (toll-free from landlines) for country-specific advice and information. You can also make an appointment at your nearest Travelvax clinic to obtain vaccinations, medication to prevent or treat illness, and accessories for your journey.