Latest Health News
World Malaria Day 2026 Launched with 'Driven to End Malaria' Campaign
The WHO and partners launched the 2026 World Malaria Day campaign 'Driven to End Malaria: Now We Can. Now We Must' on April 25, highlighting progress since 2000 with 2.3 billion cases and 14 million deaths averted. Despite 47 malaria-free countries, 2024 saw 282 million cases and 610,000 deaths, a slight increase from 2023.
WHO Prequalifies First Malaria Treatment for Newborns and Infants
WHO prequalified the first malaria treatment for newborns and infants weighing 2-5 kg, meeting quality, safety, and efficacy standards to aid underserved groups. This advances ahead of World Malaria Day, with Dr. Tedros emphasizing new tools turning the tide against malaria.
New Rapid Diagnostic Tests Prequalified to Combat Malaria Resistance
On April 14, 2026, WHO prequalified three new RDTs addressing HRP2 gene deletions in parasites, which cause false negatives in 46 countries. These tests tackle emerging diagnostic challenges amid global malaria stalls.
Malaria Progress: 47 Countries Certified Malaria-Free
Since 2000, malaria-endemic countries dropped from 108 to 80, with 47 certified malaria-free, including two in 2024 and three in 2025; 37 reported under 1,000 cases in 2024. The Greater Mekong Subregion saw nearly 90% case reduction despite drug resistance.
Western Pacific Region Reports 1.7 Million Malaria Cases in 2024
The Western Pacific had 1.7 million cases and 346 deaths in 2024; Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam reduced incidence by 75%, with Cambodia zeroing P. falciparum transmission since late 2023. Challenges include drug/insecticide resistance, funding declines, and climate impacts.
Jamaica Joins 24th Vaccination Week in the Americas
From April 25 to May 2, 2026, Jamaica observes Vaccination Week with PAHO under 'Your decision makes a difference. Immunization for all,' supporting elimination of 30+ diseases by 2030. Caribbean launch broadcasts on April 25 at 8 a.m. Jamaica time.
HPV Vaccination Push During Jamaica's Cervical Cancer Awareness Month
In April 2026, Jamaica urges HPV vaccination for children to prevent virus-related cancers, integrated into Vaccination Week events. A health fair on April 30 includes HPV jingle competition, HIV testing, and more.
Global Malaria Stalls Despite Gains, Funding Critical
Progress stalls with 2024's 282 million cases up from 2023, threatened by drug/insecticide resistance, diagnostic failures, and reduced aid. WHO calls for sustained commitment to end malaria.
China and Malaysia Advance Toward Malaria Elimination
China certified malaria-free in 2021; Malaysia maintained zero indigenous cases for seven years. Regional successes highlight achievability in Western Pacific.
Persistent Malaria in Pacific Islands Amid Challenges
High-burden islands like Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu face ongoing transmission, compounded by resistance and climate change disrupting services.
Yellow Fever Cases Reported in Africa and South America
Yellow fever cases continue in Africa and South America, updated April 22, 2026; travelers to malaria-risk areas urged immediate testing for fever post-travel.
World Health Day 2026 Theme: Together for Health, Stand with Science
The 2026 World Health Day theme emphasizes science for health protection, aligning with malaria campaign's call for innovation and funding.