Health
Ejenike Austin
MALARIA continues to be one of the most significant public health challenges in Nigeria, claiming thousands of lives each year. As the country with the highest malaria burden globally, Nigeria accounts for 27% of global cases and 32% of malaria-related deaths.
The disease disproportionately affects children under five and pregnant women, contributing to high mortality rates and undermining economic productivity. Despite decades of intervention, malaria persists due to environmental, infrastructural, and socioeconomic barriers.
According to the 2023 World Malaria Report, over 55 million cases and approximately 95,000 deaths are recorded annually in Nigeria, underscoring the critical need for sustained efforts in combating the disease.
The burden of malaria in Nigeria is immense, with children under five accounting for 20% of deaths, making it a leading cause of childhood mortality. Pregnant women are also highly vulnerable, with the disease often causing complications such as severe anemia and low birth weight, which increase maternal and neonatal mortality risks. These outcomes are exacerbated by limited access to healthcare in rural and low-income communities.
Malaria prevalence is uneven across Nigeria, influenced by climatic and environmental factors. States such as Kano, Lagos, Rivers, and Delta face significant transmission rates due to high population densities, poor drainage, and tropical climates. Coastal and swampy regions like Cross River and Akwa Ibom, as well as conflict-affected areas in the northeast, experience year-round transmission due to ideal breeding conditions for Anopheles mosquitoes. In some regions, malaria prevalence among children reaches nearly 50%.
However, a major breakthrough in malaria control has recently emerged with the introduction of the world’s first malaria vaccine, RTS,S/AS01. This development marks a critical milestone in Nigeria’s National Malaria Elimination Programme. The vaccine rollout began in Kebbi and Bayelsa states in 2024, targeting children under five, who are the most vulnerable. Delivered in four doses, the vaccine is expected to significantly reduce morbidity and mortality rates when integrated into Nigeria’s routine immunization schedule.
The introduction of the malaria vaccine complements existing control measures such as insecticide-treated nets, ITNs, seasonal malaria chemoprevention, SMC, and environmental management. ITN distribution campaigns have achieved significant coverage, though gaps remain in underserved areas. SMC has proven effective in reducing cases in regions with seasonal transmission patterns. Environmental efforts to reduce stagnant water, the primary breeding ground for mosquitoes, are ongoing but require more robust implementation.
Despite these advancements, challenges persist. Limited healthcare infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, hinders equitable access to both preventive measures and treatment. Climate change, urbanization, and population growth further complicate malaria control efforts. Moreover, sustained funding and technical support are crucial to scaling up vaccine distribution and maintaining other intervention programs.
The economic impact of malaria is also considerable. According to data shared by UNICEF, WHO, and Gavi during the 2024 malaria vaccine rollout announcements, malaria costs Nigeria an estimated $1.1 billion annually. This includes healthcare expenses and lost productivity, with families bearing a significant portion of these costs. Such economic consequences deepen poverty and perpetuate cycles of illness and hardships.
The recent developments in malaria control offer a glimmer of hope for Nigeria. By integrating the RTS,S/AS01 vaccine into broader malaria prevention strategies, the country is poised to make significant progress in reducing the burden of the disease. With continued global support and effective implementation of control measures, a malaria-free Nigeria is no longer just a vision but an achievable goal.
8th December, 2024.C.E
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