Malaria, an infectious disease transmitted to humans through the bites of certain mosquito species, caused approximately 610,000 deaths in 2024, according to data from the World Health Organization (WHO). This preventable and curable disease disproportionately impacts children, with 75% of those fatalities occurring among children under five years old in the African region, where 95% of all malaria deaths were recorded. The global fight against malaria faces latest challenges as funding commitments from key international partners are reduced.
Fever, chills, diarrhea, headaches, and flu-like symptoms should not be ignored, particularly for individuals residing in or traveling to tropical or subtropical regions.
Malaria, caused by a parasite transmitted through mosquito bites, is both preventable, and treatable. Since 2000, antimalarial medications, insecticide-treated bed nets, mosquito repellents, and vaccinations for children have collectively prevented an estimated 14 million deaths. This progress highlights the potential for continued impact with sustained investment and innovation.
The Fight is Far From Over
However, the battle against malaria is far from won. Climate change is extending the rainy season and expanding mosquito habitats, while mosquitoes are increasingly developing resistance to insecticides. The lack of a widely accessible, affordable, and highly effective vaccine, coupled with insufficient funding – particularly from the United States – for programs in endemic areas, are too hindering progress.
Decreasing Funding
The potential withdrawal of USAID funding in 2025 could lead to millions of additional child deaths by 2045. France recently announced a nearly 60% reduction in its contribution to the Global Fund, which combats HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria. This reduction in financial support raises concerns about the future of malaria control efforts.
What will be the consequences of these funding cuts on the fight against this parasitic infection? What is pharmacoresistance, and how does it impede malaria elimination? How can populations be better protected, and patient care improved during crises? Where does the vaccination campaign for children in sub-Saharan Africa currently stand?
With:
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Pr Nicolas Vignier, infectious disease specialist at Avicenne Hospital in Bobigny and professor at the University-Sorbonne Paris-Nord.
At the end of the program, we have the sports chronicle by Dr. Jean Marc Sène, sports doctor and author of Le sport : je me lance, published by In Press
► All chronicles are available here.
Musical programming:
► Ladipoe & Maglera Doe Boy – Motho Waka
► Carmen Souza – Badju Mandadu
