Every year, malaria causes many deaths, especially in Africa. In 2023, this mosquito-borne disease led to the death of 597,000 people. It is one of the highest numbers for a preventable disease.
Thanks to two new vaccines, progress has been made. These vaccines have already protected millions of children in countries like Ghana, Kenya, and Malawi. The use of insecticide-treated nets also helps fight against the mosquitoes that transmit this disease.
But it’s not enough. The World Health Organization (WHO) explains that current efforts are still too slow. In Africa, 96% of malaria-related deaths occur, with children under 5 years old and pregnant women being the most affected.
Scientists are working hard to eliminate malaria. But to succeed, more money, more mosquito nets, and most importantly, help for the poorest families, who are the most vulnerable, are needed.