Japan Partners with WHO to Combat Malaria Surge in Sistan-Baluchestan

In a significant move to combat the alarming rise in malaria cases, especially in southeastern regions, the Government of Japan has made a notable contribution to support the World Health Organization (WHO). This initiative aims to address the urgent health crisis and enhance the overall health infrastructure in affected areas.

Recently, the WHO announced in a press release dated January 15 that the Japanese government has donated crucial resources to fight malaria. This donation includes:

• 4,902 mosquito dome tents – These tents will provide essential protection for families against infected mosquitoes.
• 50,000 malaria rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) – These tests will enable healthcare workers to swiftly identify and treat malaria-infected individuals.
• 1,655 kg of insecticides – This will help in controlling mosquito populations right at their breeding sites.

These combined resources are expected to benefit approximately 77,400 people in the province, significantly bolstering malaria prevention efforts.

Historically, the Islamic Republic of Iran had made strides against malaria, seemingly overcoming locally transmitted cases by 2018 and 2019. However, this progress was undermined in 2022, with a staggering five-fold increase in malaria cases compared to the previous year.

The resurgence of malaria cases has been largely attributed to the devastating floods that affected neighboring Pakistan in September 2022. These floods created numerous breeding sites for mosquitoes. The porous border with Pakistan further complicates the situation, allowing both infected individuals and mosquitoes to cross back and forth easily. Additional factors such as poverty, limited access to clean water, inadequate sanitation, and substandard housing create an environment ripe for malaria transmission.

In December 2024, a WHO mission observed an encouraging proactive approach to malaria control by local health workers. They were engaged in:

• Conducting house-to-house screenings
• Distributing mosquito nets
• Educating communities on proper net usage

According to Mikiko Senga, WHO Deputy Representative and Health Emergencies Lead in Iran, “Active case finding that complements passive surveillance is essential in selected communities in Chabahar, where access to health care can be extremely limited.” She emphasized the importance of identifying both symptomatic and asymptomatic cases to effectively break the transmission cycle, particularly in communities with low health literacy, which often correlates with low healthcare-seeking behavior.

The mission also shed light on the healthcare infrastructure in Chabahar, identifying both capacities and gaps. It highlighted how social determinants of health significantly influence the spread of malaria, underscoring the necessity for targeted interventions.

The collaboration with the Government of Japan exemplifies how international partnerships can effectively respond to public health emergencies and protect vulnerable populations. The ongoing battle against malaria in Chabahar and the broader Sistan-Baluchestan province continues with hope. Thanks to the concerted efforts of WHO, the Government of Japan, and local health authorities, there is optimism that this outbreak can be contained.

In October 2024, the Government of Japan also procured an additional 50,000 malaria rapid diagnostic tests and 4,902 mosquito dome tents. This was aimed at strengthening the health ministry’s capacity to tackle the rising prevalence of malaria in Sistan-Baluchestan province.

These rapid diagnostic tests were distributed to health centers and hospitals across the province through three universities of medical sciences: Zahedan, Iranshahr, and Chabahar. Meanwhile, the mosquito tents were also allocated to these same three universities.

Syed Jaffar Hussain, WHO Representative and Head of Mission in Iran, highlighted the broader impact of these donations, stating, “The impact of these donations, made with the support of the Government of Japan, extends beyond immediate malaria prevention and diagnosis. By strengthening the capacity of local healthcare systems, these efforts contribute to the long-term goal of malaria elimination in the Region.”

He further explained that the quick availability of rapid diagnostic tests enables the swift confirmation of suspected malaria cases, thereby reducing the risk of severe illness and fatalities. The mosquito tents provide a practical and effective means of protecting those most at risk, thus helping to disrupt the transmission cycle.

The comprehensive support from WHO and the Government of Japan significantly enhances the ability to combat malaria, safeguard public health, and improve the overall well-being and resilience of affected populations. The ongoing initiatives reflect a strong commitment to eradicating malaria and ensuring healthier futures for communities at risk.

With the collaborative efforts underway, the fight against malaria in southeastern Iran continues, with a renewed sense of determination and hope for the future.