MALARIA 

What is it?

Malaria is an infectious disease transmitted by mosquitoes and caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Plasmodium.

How is it transmitted?

The disease is usually transmitted through the bite of an infected female Anopheles mosquito.

The parasites present in its saliva enter the host’s blood circulation.

Within minutes, the parasites reach the liver, where they develop and reproduce.

Key facts about Malaria

Malaria is the
leading cause of death
around the world

In 2016, it claimed
445 000 lives
including those of
285 000 children

216 MILLION
estimated number of global
malaria cases in 2016.

Africa is the world region
most affected by Malaria

An estimated 90% of Malaria cases
and 91% of Malaria deaths
occurred in the continent in 2016.

Every two minutes an African child dies of Malaria

Pregnant women and children are highly vulnerable to this disease

Malaria in Angola  (i)

• Malaria in Angola remains a major public health concern

• It is the leading cause of death, illness and absenteeism at work and school

• In 2016, there were an estimated 16 000 malaria deaths in the country

Malaria in Angola (ii)

• According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the number of Malaria cases increased by 21% in recent years

• Malaria accounts for approximately 35% of curative care, 20% of hospital admissions, 40% of perinatal deaths and 25% of maternal mortality

Why is it important to fight Malaria?

Social and economic impact

• Healthy children can go to school and receive an education that promotes their dignity and self-development

• Healthier populations lead to a decrease in governments spending on malaria treatments and health care

• Suppressing malaria reduces worker absenteeism and increases productivity

• Malaria-free countries have 5x greater economic growth than countries with malaria

How to help the fight against Malaria?

Prevention is still the most effective weapon against malaria

Mosquito repellents are a close ally of malaria prevention, besides having no impact on the environment and being completely safe to human health.