UAE stays malaria-free for 16 years: Prevention strategies

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been malaria-free since 2007, as declared by the World Health Organization (WHO) on April 25 of that year. The country was one of the first in the Eastern Mediterranean region to achieve this milestone. As the world marks World Malaria Day on April 25, the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) reiterated the UAE’s commitment to reducing global malaria incidence by 90% before 2030.
 
The UAE’s approach to malaria prevention is based on an effective strategy that involves collaborating with health authorities to prevent the importation of malaria into the country. The strategy also includes implementing an efficient epidemiological surveillance program and working on investigating and controlling insects, as well as cooperating with neighboring countries to ensure comprehensive control of the disease.
 
The MoHAP is committed to maintaining the country’s malaria-free status by rigorously implementing a post-declaration plan. This includes completing the rehabilitation and training of specialized personnel and strengthening activities to combat mosquitoes that transmit the disease.
 
Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by parasites transmitted to humans through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. While the disease can be prevented and treated, it continues to be a significant global health challenge. In 2021, there were an estimated 247 million cases of malaria worldwide. To combat this issue, the WHO Global Technical Strategy for Malaria 2016-2030 sets out ambitious and achievable global targets.
 
The UAE’s efforts to combat malaria have been widely recognized by several international health organizations, who have lauded the country’s leadership, including the UAE President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, for his unwavering support of global efforts aimed at combating malaria.
 
The MoHAP’s commitment to reducing global malaria incidence is a significant step towards achieving the WHO’s ambitious goal of reducing malaria cases by 90% before 2030. As a malaria-free country, the UAE is well-positioned to share its expertise and collaborate with other countries in the region to combat this deadly disease.