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Globally around 3.2 billion people – nearly half of the world’s population – are at risk of malaria. During 2015, there were approximately 214 million cases and 438 000 deaths from malaria. Most cases and deaths occur in sub-Saharan Africa.(1)
In the UK there are approximately 1400 – 1800 imported cases of malaria and an average of 7 deaths annually. Most cases are in travellers who have been to Africa, particularly West Africa. A disproportionate number of cases are in travellers visiting friends and relatives (VFRs).(2)
Despite the statistics, the WHO’s World Malaria Report 2015, showed that there has been a decline in global malaria cases and deaths since 2000. This has been reflected in the information for healthcare professionals advising travellers on TRAVAX, generated through our systematic review of malaria advice and maps for all countries.
TRAVAX and fitfortravel malaria advice and maps are produced based on the recommendations of the Scottish Malaria Advisory Group (SMAG). In recent years, this review has resulted in downgrading of risk for some countries, mostly in south-east Asia and central and south America. Malaria risk in Africa remains significant.
Each year, WHO and partners unite around a common World Malaria Day theme. The theme this year is End Malaria for Good, through:
On World Malaria Day the commitment of WHO and partners is to highlight advances in malaria control and to commit to continued investment and action to accelerate progress against this deadly disease.
1. World Health Organisation 2016. World malaria day. Available at: http://www.who.int/campaigns/malaria-day/2016/event/en/ (Accessed April 2016).
2. Public Health England 2015. Imported malaria in the UK: statistics Available at: https://www.gov.uk/ (Accessed April 2016).
