Govt launches malaria net distribution campaign in Reg 9
The Health Ministry on Friday launched the Malaria Mass Net Distribution Campaign in Aishalton Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) to reduce the transmission of malaria by providing a barrier against mosquitos that carry the disease.
The use of Long-Lasting Insecticide-Treated Nets (LLINs) is the major vector control strategy adopted in Guyana. The National Malaria Strategic Plan under Strategic Priority Number Four has outlined one of its goals as the need to optimise the distribution and use of these treated nets in malaria-affected communities within Regions: 1, 7, 8, 9 & 10.
This will be achieved through mass free distributions to be held every three years in Guyana, an activity which will be supported by continuous net distributions through multiple channels.
Dr Anthony along with US Ambassador, Nicole Theriot and health officials at the launch
This campaign focuses on the most vulnerable populations, those living and working in the mining areas where the risk of malaria is highest. It aims to ensure that every family, every child, and every individual has access to the protection they need.
Dr Frank Anthony at the event
During his featured address, subject minister Dr. Frank Anthony said, the ministry believes that with more effort, malaria will soon be eliminated from the Regions of Guyana. He stated that over the past years, the ministry has made a lot of investments towards the elimination of infectious diseases such as filaria, leishmaniasis, chagas and leprosy by 2030.
“We have targeted these things and working in a very systematic way in making progress. We believe that we can remove the cases of malaria from Region Nine, with hopes of utilising this strategy in other Regions to remove malaria as a problem in Guyana.”
He highlighted that the malaria rapid test kits are available for persons who present with symptoms of malaria.
“If anyone tests positive for malaria, treatment is readily available. One initiative we have worked on through a programme with Breakthrough Action is the creation of an enveloped treatment package with clear instructions for using the medication.”
He further stated that malaria can be prevented if everyone works towards eliminating mosquito breeding sites in surrounding areas and using malaria-treated nets correctly all the time.
A section of the residents at the launch
“The Slogan says, ‘lil mosquito big problem’, but it doesn’t have to be a big problem if we all work towards eliminating malaria. When this is done, we can say, no mosquitoes no problem”, Dr. Anthony expressed.
Meanwhile, the United States Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot, related that over the past seven years, USAID has provided more than US$5.2 million in technical assistance through the malaria programme.
She assured those present, of the US Government’s commitment to continued collaboration in supporting the health and well-being of communities within Guyana.
“We must ensure 80% bed net coverage in endemic communities like yours. We must expand access to information and increase awareness of the importance of using these LLINs to prevent malaria”, Ambassador Theriot said.
Moreover, the Health Systems and Services Advisor attached to PAHO Guyana Country Office, Daniel Albrecht stated that PAHO will continue to support Guyana’s Malaria campaign to eradicate the mosquito-borne disease.
