Soroti | The Iteso Cultural Union (ICU) has rallied its people to take preventative measures such as sleeping under mosquito nets and clearing bushes around their homes.
This call coincides with today’s Malaria Day celebrations.
The ICU’s goal is to combat the staggering 286,674 malaria cases registered in the sub-region in the first quarter of 2024.
Abdallah Ochoggia, Deputy Minister of Information and National Guidance, has emphasised the importance of prioritising good health practices in order to reduce the country’s health burden.
Uganda has one of the highest global malaria burdens, with over 90% of the population at risk. Malaria remains the leading cause of death, especially in children.
According to the WHO 2022 report, Uganda had an estimated 12.7 million malaria cases and over 17,556 deaths.
Ochoggia believes that ensuring the subjects’ health and productivity is a source of pride for the Kingdom.
Also read: Malaria is still the leading killer in Adjumani
Ochoggia also emphasises that following malaria control guidelines can significantly reduce the country’s disease burden and expenditure, thereby improving the economy.
According to published reports, malaria causes Uganda an average economic loss of more than $500 million per year.
Globally, an estimated 249 million malaria cases were reported in 85 endemic countries in 2022, with an incidence rate of 58 cases per 1000 people at risk.
To combat this burden, the world commemorates World Malaria Day on April 25, with the goal of raising awareness about prevention measures and addressing persistent disparities in access to malaria services.
This year’s theme, “Accelerating the fight against malaria for a more equitable world,” emphasises the critical need for improved access to prevention, detection, and treatment services.
By Robert Edwomu.
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