About 3.4 billion people - half of the world's population - are at risk of malaria. In 2012, there were about 207 million malaria cases (with an uncertainty range of 135 million to 287 million) and an estimated 627 000 malaria deaths (with an uncertainty range of 473 000 to 789 000). Increased prevention and control measures have led to a reduction in malaria mortality rates by 42% globally since 2000 and by 49% in the WHO African Region. People living in the poorest countries are the most vulnerable to malaria. In 2012, 90% of all malaria deaths occurred in the WHO African Region, mostly among children under 5 years of age.
1. Malaria is caused by parasites that are transmitted to people through the bites of infected mosquitoes
Malaria is caused by Plasmodium parasites that are spread to people through the bites of infected Anophelesmosquito vectors. Of the five parasite species that cause malaria in humans, Plasmodium falciparum is the most deadly.
2. Half of the world's population is at risk of malaria
Every year, 3.4 billion people are at risk of malaria. This leads to about 207 million malaria cases (with an uncertainty range of 135 million to 287 million) and an estimated 627 000 malaria deaths (with an uncertainty range of 473 000 to 789 000). People living in the poorest countries are the most vulnerable.
3. Every minute, a child dies from malaria
In 2012, 90% of the world's malaria deaths occurred in Africa and about 460 000 African children died before their fifth birthdays.
4. Malaria mortality rates are falling
Increased malaria prevention and control measures are dramatically reducing the malaria burden in many places. Malaria mortality rates have fallen by 42% globally since 2000 and by 49% in the WHO African Region.
5. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment of malaria prevents deaths
Early diagnosis and treatment of malaria reduces disease and prevents deaths. It also contributes to reducing malaria transmission. Access to diagnostic testing and treatment should be seen not only as a component of malaria control but as a fundamental right of all populations at risk.
6. Emerging artemisinin resistance is a major concern
Parasite resistance to artemisinin, the core compound in WHO-recommended combination treatments for uncomplicated malaria, has been detected in 4 countries of south east Asia: Cambodia, Myanmar, Thailand and Viet Nam. However, artemisinin-based combination therapies remain highly effective in almost all settings, as long as the partner drug in the combination is locally effective.
7. Sleeping under long-lasting insecticidal nets protects against malaria
These nets provide personal protection against mosquito bites. They can be used as protection for people most at risk of malaria, such as young children and pregnant women in high malaria transmission areas. The nets are effective for three to five years, depending on the model and conditions of use. According to the World malaria report 2013, 86% of people with access to a net use it.
8. Indoor residual spraying is the most effective way to rapidly reduce malaria transmission
The full potential of indoor residual spraying is obtained when at least 80% of houses in targeted areas are sprayed. Indoor spraying with insecticides kills the mosquito vector and is effective for 3 - 6 months, depending on the insecticide used and the type of surface on which it is sprayed. Longer-lasting forms of insecticides are under development.
9. Pregnant women are particularly at risk of malaria
Pregnant women are at high risk of dying from the complications of severe malaria. Malaria is also a cause of spontaneous abortion, premature delivery, stillbirth and severe maternal anaemia, and is responsible for about one third of preventable low-birth-weight babies. WHO recommends intermittent preventive treatment for pregnant women living in areas of high malaria transmission.
10. Malaria causes significant economic losses in high-burden countries
In high-burden settings, malaria can trap families and communities in a downward spiral of poverty, disproportionately affecting marginalized and poor people who cannot afford treatment or who have limited access to health care.