Cape Verde, an archipelago west of Senegal, has achieved a significant milestone by being certified malaria-free by the World Health Organization (WHO). This makes Cape Verde the third African country to eliminate malaria, following Mauritius in 1973 and Algeria in 2019. The accomplishment is noteworthy in the global fight against malaria, as the total number of malaria-free countries now stands at 43.
Eliminating malaria is a complex and challenging endeavor, and Cape Verde’s journey to achieve this status involved strategic interventions and a commitment to public health. The archipelago, consisting of 10 islands with a population of over 500,000 people, had a history of malaria dating back to its settlement in the 15th century.
During the 1940s, severe malaria epidemics plagued Cape Verde, leading to over 10,000 cases and 200 deaths annually. However, targeted interventions, including indoor residual spraying with DDT and larviciding, were implemented in the 1960s, resulting in the interruption of nationwide transmission by 1967. Unfortunately, the gains were not sustained, and a recurrence occurred on Santiago island in 1973, followed by a significant epidemic in 1977.
The second attempt to eliminate malaria began in 1978, with transmission interruption achieved in 1983. However, by 2006, rising cases posed a threat to tourism, prompting a political decision in 2007 to boost nationwide elimination efforts. The focus shifted to expanded diagnosis, early and effective treatment, and the management of all cases.
Despite progress, Cape Verde faced a setback in 2017 with its “worst malaria outbreak” since 1991, recording 423 cases. This prompted a strategy adjustment with a renewed emphasis on vector control, targeting affected neighborhoods and malaria-prone communities. The strategy proved successful, and transmission was interrupted for four years.
To be certified malaria-free by the WHO, countries must meet stringent criteria. This includes having zero locally transmitted cases for at least three consecutive years and demonstrating the ability to prevent the reintroduction of the disease. Cape Verde’s success reflects the nation’s determination and commitment to eliminating malaria.
Globally, the WHO reported 249 million malaria cases and 619,000 malaria-related deaths in 2022, with the African region accounting for 94% of cases and 96% of deaths. Achieving malaria-free status is a significant accomplishment, and countries must continue efforts to prevent transmission and submit annual reports to the WHO to maintain this status.
Looking ahead, the WHO’s E-2025 initiative targets 25 countries for elimination by 2025. Belize achieved elimination in 2023, and other countries, such as Malaysia, Timor-Leste, and Saudi Arabia, are on track to be declared malaria-free soon. In the African region, countries like Botswana, Eswatini, and South Africa have reported significant reductions in indigenous transmission.
Cape Verde’s success in eliminating malaria is not only a personal milestone but also holds economic significance. Tourism, a vital part of Cape Verde’s economy, can benefit from the malaria-free status, potentially attracting more visitors. The infrastructure established for malaria elimination also strengthens the country’s health system, providing resilience against other mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever.
Cape Verde’s achievement serves as a rallying call for the global malaria community to persist in efforts to end malaria for good. The success story of Cape Verde underscores the importance of sustained commitment, strategic interventions, and a comprehensive public health approach in the fight against malaria.
Source Cape Verde is the third African country to eliminate malaria: here’s how published in The Conversation.