World Malaria Day 2023 On 25th April
World Malaria Day is observed every year on April 25 to raise awareness about the global efforts to control and eradicate malaria. The day was established in 2007 by the World Health Organization (WHO) to recognize the global fight against malaria and the progress made towards its eradication. The theme for World Malaria Day 2023 is “Zero Malaria Starts with Me”.
Why this News is Important
Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by the Plasmodium parasite, which is transmitted to humans through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. It is a major public health problem in many countries, particularly in Africa and South Asia. According to the WHO, there were an estimated 229 million cases of malaria worldwide in 2019, and 409,000 deaths. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated the malaria burden, as the resources and attention of the health systems have been diverted towards the COVID-19 response. In this context, World Malaria Day 2023 assumes great significance, as it provides an opportunity to highlight the need for sustained efforts to combat malaria and prevent its resurgence.
Historical Context
Malaria has been a major health challenge for centuries, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. The first documented case of malaria dates back to the 4th century BCE, and the disease has since been a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The discovery of the role of mosquitoes in the transmission of malaria by British physician Sir Ronald Ross in 1897 marked a major breakthrough in the understanding of the disease.
In the 20th century, the development of effective anti-malarial drugs and insecticides, as well as the implementation of mosquito control measures, led to significant reductions in malaria incidence in many parts of the world. The Global Malaria Eradication Programme launched by the WHO in the 1950s aimed to eliminate malaria worldwide, but it was eventually abandoned due to technical, operational, and financial challenges.
Key Takeaways from “World Malaria Day 2023”
| Serial No. | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|
| 1. | World Malaria Day is observed every year on April 25 to raise awareness about the global efforts to control and eradicate malaria. |
| 2. | The theme for World Malaria Day 2023 is “Zero Malaria Starts with Me”. |
| 3. | Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by the Plasmodium parasite, and it is a major public health problem in many countries, particularly in Africa and South Asia. |
| 4. | The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated the malaria burden, as the resources and attention of the health systems have been diverted towards the COVID-19 response. |
| 5. | World Malaria Day 2023 provides an opportunity to highlight the need for sustained efforts to combat malaria and prevent its resurgence. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, World Malaria Day 2023 serves as a reminder of the ongoing global efforts to combat malaria and the challenges that lie ahead in achieving the goal of malaria eradication. The theme “Zero Malaria Starts with Me” emphasizes the importance of individual and community actions in preventing and controlling malaria. As students prepare for government exams for various positions, including teachers, police officers, banking, railways, defence and civil service positions like PSCS to IAS, it is important to be aware of the current scenario of malaria, its impact on public health, and the efforts being made to combat it.
Important FAQs for Students from this News
Q.1. What is the aim of World Malaria Day?
A. The aim of World Malaria Day is to raise awareness about the global efforts to control and eradicate malaria.
Q.2. When is World Malaria Day observed?
A. World Malaria Day is observed every year on April 25.
Q.3. What is the theme of World Malaria Day 2023?
A. The theme for World Malaria Day 2023 is “Zero Malaria Starts with Me”.
Q.4. What is malaria?
A. Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by the Plasmodium parasite, which is transmitted to humans through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes.
Q.5. How many cases of malaria were there worldwide in 2019?
A. According to the WHO, there were an estimated 229 million cases of malaria worldwide in 2019, and 409,000 deaths.
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