World Malaria Day is April 25th of this year, and we want to spread awareness about the continuing world health crisis of malaria. Lots of regions globally are populated by people living near or on the travel route toward a major water source. Many sources of water attract disease-carrying mosquitoes. This includes stagnant water, ponds, factory run-off, water cans, rivers, and more. Every water source is a potential breeding ground for mosquitoes–particularly those carrying malaria parasites.
According to WHO (2017), of 219 million global cases of malaria, about 92% are in African countries. In some of those countries, sprays are available for use inside their homes. Many people in African countries sleep beneath an insecticide net. Others receive anti-malarial medication. These preventive treatments are not widely available for all people though–especially not the sprays, which can be expensive over time. Many children and adults who fall ill with malaria will then need to be tested and treated for it. Access to this medical care often does not adequately cover the needs of a region. Without treatment and prevention, sometimes there are malaria deaths and secondary illnesses or injuries due to malaria, such as blindness or brain damage.
World Malaria Day Increases Awareness
How does sharing information about malaria help? It increases awareness. The more we learn about a condition that may impact people in regions where we serve–or ourselves here at home–the better we can support one another’s health goals. Many living in the United States live in communities that employ trained workers who spray or set traps for mosquitoes. These employees also work on culverts, check for and warn against standing water in public spaces or yards, and do other things to help quell mosquito breeding.
We may enjoy going outdoors for fun and recreation quite often. It is generally easy for us to plan on wearing a special lotion or mosquito spray, burning citronella candles, or hanging up a zapper in the yard. This is a routine in other countries too, but due to wars, epidemics, or other causes, not every region of the world currently has the infrastructure to regularly support these efforts.
There is Hope
Malaria is a potentially curable disease, but it is also largely preventable with access to the right supplies and education. There is currently a pan-African effort to increase awareness and lessen the spread of malaria. Zero Malaria Starts With Me is a campaign created to educate youth and adults about malaria. People of all ages and backgrounds, including religious leaders and students, volunteer in this program.
Medical missions volunteers also often play a role in helping many people receive malaria treatment and prevention techniques. Interested in volunteering to join a medical mission trip? Reach out to Mission Partners for Christ on our website or via Facebook and Instagram.
