Malaria remains one of the leading health concerns for international travelers and expatriates visiting or relocating to Africa. In 2023, there were an estimated 263 million new cases of malaria and 597,000 malaria deaths worldwide. Strikingly, 95% of all malaria cases and deaths occurred in the World Health Organization African Region, with children under five accounting for about 76% of all malaria deaths in Africa.

Whether you are planning a short leisure trip or returning for a long-term work assignment, understanding the risks and how to stay protected is essential.

At Flying Doctors Nigeria, we have outlined five key things everyone should know about malaria. This guide will help you stay informed, prepared, and safe.

1. Malaria – One of the oldest diseases known in human history

Malaria isn’t just a modern-day concern, it has been around for thousands of years. In fact, traces of the malaria parasite have been discovered in the remains of ancient Egyptian mummies, proving just how long this disease has affected human populations.

The good news? Unlike more complex illnesses such as HIV/AIDS, malaria is both preventable and treatable when addressed early and properly.

2. Malaria is a Preventable and Curable Disease

Global efforts to combat malaria are working. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), malaria cases have dropped by 47% worldwide and 54% in Africa since 2000, a remarkable step forward in public health.

While the disease still poses a threat, especially in underserved regions, ongoing innovation in treatment and prevention is making a real difference. With increased awareness, timely access to medication, and continued investment in healthcare infrastructure, the vision of a malaria-free world is closer than ever.

3. Drug-Resistant Malaria is a Recurring Issue

One of the ongoing hurdles in the fight against malaria is the rise of drug-resistant strains. The parasites responsible for the disease are gradually adapting to medications that were once highly effective, making treatment more complex in some cases.

Several factors contribute to this resistance:

• Incomplete treatment cycles: Patients often stop taking medication once symptoms improve, rather than completing the full course.

• Limited access to proper healthcare guidance: Untrained vendors or pharmacists may dispense medications based on what a patient can afford, rather than what’s required for a full recovery.

• The circulation of counterfeit or substandard drugs which not only fail to treat malaria but also promote resistance.

Addressing these issues through better public education, regulatory oversight, and access to quality healthcare is key to preventing drug resistance and ensuring effective treatment for all.

4. The Cost of Medicine is Expensive

While advancements in malaria treatment have led to the development of newer, more effective drugs, especially for drug-resistant strains, these innovations often come at a higher cost. In some cases, a full adult dose can be 10 to 20 times more expensive than older medications.

For many individuals in high-risk regions, this creates a significant barrier to access. However, global health organizations, governments, and local partners are working together to improve affordability and availability. Continued investment in healthcare infrastructure and subsidies can help ensure that lifesaving treatment reaches those who need it most.

5. Stronger Health Systems, Stronger Malaria Response

Combating malaria effectively goes hand in hand with strengthening healthcare systems. Improved infrastructure and surveillance can help detect outbreaks early, while better training equips healthcare workers to diagnose and treat malaria with greater accuracy. Education and community outreach also play a crucial role in promoting prevention, ensuring that individuals and families are informed and protected before malaria strikes.

Final Thoughts

We hope these five insights gave you a clearer understanding of malaria and the ongoing efforts to fight it. Whether you’re planning a trip, returning home, or simply learning more, awareness is the first step toward protection.

Did something stand out to you? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.