Malaria

Malaria is an infectious disease that, despite being preventable and treatable, threatens the lives of 3.2 billion people globally - nearly half of the world's population. In 2016, there were an estimated 445,000 deaths from malaria globally, with 91% of those deaths in sub-Saharan Africa.

In countries where malaria is endemic, prevention is an important component of malaria control. Preventative medical supplies are available from IDA in the form of insecticide-treated bed nets and medicines to prevent malaria in vulnerable groups, including pregnant women and infants.

Early and accurate diagnosis of malaria is essential. Misdiagnosis can result in worsening illness or death. IDA has various rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) in our product range. These RDTs offer an alternative to microscopy testing which may not be available in community settings.

RDT brochure

Malaria infections can be treated with anti-malarial medicines. WHO recommends the use of artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) in cases of drug-resistant falciparum malaria. IDA Foundation offers a complete range of antimalarial drugs including fixed dose combinations and products for severe malaria.

Globally, more countries are moving towards malaria elimination. In 2016, 44 countries reported fewer than 10,000 malaria cases. The WHO has identified 21 countries as having the potential to elminate malaria by 2020.