Malaria: WHO raises alarm surging cases in Ethiopia

Ethiopia has reported 8.4 million malaria cases since the beginning of this year, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).

Malaria continues to pose a public health risk in Ethiopia, reaching an epidemic proportion with an average of more than 300,000 malaria cases reported weekly across the country.

WHO gave the figure in an Ethiopia Health Cluster Bulletin report released this week.

According to the World Bodys, the country has recorded more than 8.4 million malaria cases since the beginning of 2024.

This makes it the highest-ever number of cases reported within a year.

WHO noted that “almost every district” in the East African country has reported a case. It added that many of these districts have surpassed the epidemic threshold.

Malaria is endemic in Ethiopia with higher prevalence in areas below the 2,000-meter altitude, covering three-quarters of the country’s land mass.

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Around 69 per cent of the country’s population reside in these areas, facing the risk of infection.

Typically, malaria peaks occur between September and December, following the primary rainy season in the country.

It also rises from April to May after the secondary rainy season.

The international medical charity Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) recently warned that an “urgent and targeted” response is needed to control the ongoing malaria epidemic in Ethiopia.

In the light of seasonal changes and population movements, the MSF said, it is critical to prioritise response preparedness.

This is so, especially, in high-risk areas and among vulnerable communities for maximum impact. (Xinhua)