🦟 Bangladesh is close to zero malaria deaths

• The number of malaria cases and deaths in Bangladesh is steadily decreasing.
• The country has seen a 96 percent reduction in malaria deaths between 2008 and 2023.
• Over 85 percent of the population has access to malaria treatment.

Significant progress in the fight against malaria

Bangladesh is making great strides in the fight against malaria. In 2023, the country recorded 16,567 cases and six deaths, a decrease from 18,195 cases and 14 deaths the year before. A decade ago, in 2014, Bangladesh saw 45 deaths from 57,480 cases in one year.

According to Shyamol Kumer Das, Deputy Program Manager at the Directorate of Health Services, there has been a 96 percent reduction in deaths between 2008 and 2023.

Successful strategies

Bangladesh's success is based on several factors:

1. Rapid access to treatment
2. An effective referral system for high-risk cases
3. Surveillance of patients and vectors

The National Malaria Elimination Program has distributed 15.7 million long-lasting insecticide-treated bed nets. Approximately 97 percent of households in the 13 malaria-endemic districts have access to these nets.

Challenges remain

Despite progress, challenges still exist. The Chattogram Hill Tracts, including the Bandarban district, account for 90 percent of Bangladesh's malaria cases in 2023. The dense forests in the area make communications difficult.

To address this, a three-step plan for malaria patient care has been developed:

1. Field workers test suspected patients through door-to-door visits and provide initial treatment.
2. Patients can seek care at local health clinics.
3. If condition worsens, patients are referred to Upazila Health Complex.

Bangladesh aims for zero deaths by 2027, along with interruption of local transmission and elimination of indigenous malaria.

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