According to a 2020 report, the Edo State Government has informed that the malaria prevalence rate in the state stands at 30 percent.
Dr. Williams Iyekekpolor, the manager of the Edo Malaria Elimination Programme, revealed this information during a press briefing in Benin on the occasion of the 2024 World Malaria Day.
He highlighted that the state is striving to reach the World Health Organization’s target of zero malaria by 2030 and mentioned the progress made in reducing malaria rates from 50 percent to 30 percent within two years.
“The global aim is to eliminate malaria by 2030, with Nigeria expected to achieve zero malaria by then. Despite Nigeria still representing 25 percent of malaria cases nationally, Edo’s prevalence has been recorded at 30 percent as per the 2020 data,” he stated.
Emphasizing the need for collective action against malaria, Iyekekpolor discussed the theme of the 2024 World Malaria Day, “Accelerating the Fight Against Malaria for a More Equitable World,” with the slogan “Change the Narrative; Do the Needful.”
The state government is currently providing complimentary malaria testing and treatment through rapid diagnostic tests at all Primary Health Care centers. Additionally, patients enrolled in the state insurance scheme have access to nearly free malaria treatment.
In his advice to residents, he recommended sleeping under long-lasting insecticidal nets, maintaining a clean environment free of stagnant water, and seeking immediate medical attention when symptoms of malaria appear.
He further mentioned that activities like a city center road walk, free malaria screening, and treatment were part of the commemoration activities planned for the day.