World Malaria Day April 25 – Global Efforts to Combat Malaria (WHO)

25 April – World Malaria Day (WHO) Each year on 25 April, World Malaria Day is observed to raise awareness about one of the world’s most serious infectious diseases. Established by the World Health Organization during its 60th session in May 2007, the day aims to promote prevention, effective treatment, and international efforts to eliminate malaria. Governments, international organizations, and local communities mark the occasion with awareness campaigns, distribution of insecticide-treated bed nets, and promotion of effective prevention methods. Researchers continue working to develop new vaccines and treatments that could reduce infections, and deaths. For the 2026 observance, WHO has proposed the theme: “Accelerate the fight to end malaria: Now People can. Now we must.” Science is advancing faster than ever, making malaria eradication in our lifetime a real possibility. New vaccines, treatments, malaria control tools, and innovative technologies are currently in development. Already, 25 countries are implementing malaria vaccines to protect 10 million children annually. Next-generation insecticide-treated bed nets now account for 84% of all newly distributed nets. Nationally led programs are driving change, and the opportunity to eliminate malaria has never been greater, as noted on who.int. Despite moderately optimistic forecasts, a WHO report released to the public in December 2025 showed that malaria caused approximately 610,000 deaths in 2024, with the majority being young children in sub-Saharan Africa.