Malaria

Vector-borne diseases including malaria, place an incredible burden on health systems in low- and middle-income countries. Among vector-borne diseases, malaria is the biggest killer with approximately 627.000 deaths in 2020 (WHO, 2022). Despite being preventable and treatable, malaria threatens the lives of 3.2 billion people globally - nearly half of the world's population. 96% of malaria deaths occur in sub-Saharan Africa. Furthermore, children under the age of five accounted for 80% of all malaria deaths in 2020, making them a specific vulnerable group (WHO, 2022).

In countries where malaria is endemic, prevention is an important component of vector control. As a selected Procurement Services Agent (PSA) for the Global Fund under the Pooled Procurement Mechanism (PPM), IDA Foundation is supplying Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLINs) and Indoor Residual Spray (IRS) to prevent malaria in vulnerable groups. LLINs and IRS are seen as two important Vector Control measures that protect humans from the mosquitoes carrying malaria parasites.

Aside from preventive measures, early and accurate diagnosis of malaria is essential, misdiagnosis can result in progressing illness or death. IDA has rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) in its product range. These RDTs offer an alternative to microscopy testing, which may not be available in community settings. Find our Malaria related products in IDA's Product Indicator.

Malaria infections can be treated with anti-malarial medicines. The WHO recommends the use of artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) in cases of drug-resistant falciparum malaria. IDA Foundation offers a complete range of antimalarial medication including fixed dose combinations and products for severe malaria.

IDA Foundation is the largest supplier of malaria bednets worldwide, being responsible for one third of the total global provision of bednets for malaria campaigns (2021 data).