WHO urges the phasing out of artemisinin based monotherapy for malaria to reduce resistance

Marking the fifth World Malaria Day on 25 April, international agencies hailed a reduction in the global burden of malaria during the recent decade, but urged a massive acceleration of efforts, greater commitment, and innovation to achieve the United Nations’ target of near zero deaths by 2015.

The World Health Organization reports that more than 780 000 people died of the disease in 2009, with 91% occurring in sub-Saharan Africa. Most deaths are among children under 5 years.

Awa Marie Coll-Seck, executive director of the Roll Back Malaria Partnership, said, “Malaria control has turned into a great development success story,” attributing it to the leadership of malaria endemic countries, political will, public private partnership, and increased resources.

“Such joint initiatives have revolutionised the way we raise awareness and success in delivery of healthcare to …