The Ministry of Health in Muchinga Province says the province has recorded a reduction in malaria cases this year.
Speaking in an interview with the Zambia News and Information Services (ZANIS) in Chinsali today, Provincial Health Director Nero Chilembo said the region has recorded a reduction in malaria cases this year.
Dr Chilembo stated that the province has made strides in controlling malaria cases especially in districts where malaria cases have been high in the past, such as Nakonde, Mpika and Chama districts.
He attributed the reduction in the number of cases to the interventions put in place by the health personnel, in a bid to eliminate malaria.
Dr Chilembo added that the engagement of various stakeholders to help in the fight against malaria has equally helped the province in reducing malaria cases.
The PHD cited some of the interventions put in place, such as the door to door distribution of Insecticide Treated Mosquito Nets (ITNs) and Residual Indoor Spraying programme (IRS) coupled with the adherence to malaria medication.
“The availability of malaria services, that is prevention, diagnosis and treatment services as well as availability of malaria drugs in health facilities, has also helped to reduce malaria cases,” he said.
Dr Chilembo however, said despite the reduction, the ministry in the province will not drop the guard but will continue with the interventions in order for the region to attain a malaria free status.
“Our desire is to completely eliminate this deadly disease which has claimed many lives,” Dr Chilembo stated. – ZANIS