The World Health Organization (WHO) is warning that the fight against malaria has stalled for the first time in a decade.
To mark World Malaria Day the WHO is calling on affected countries to renew their efforts at malaria prevention and treatment.
Malaria claimed almost 500,000 lives in 2016, the latest year for which there are figures, most deaths occurred in sub Saharan Africa.
Between the year 2000 and 2015, huge strides were made in the fight against the disease: deaths fell by 48%. But in 2016 that downward trend stalled.
One reason: mosquitos are becoming resistant to the insecticide used in bed nets. But complacency, failing health services, and lack of funding are problems too.
WHO says the world cannot afford to neglect malaria: with over 200 million cases worldwide, the disease takes a huge toll on families, communities, and economies.
To really beat malaria, more investment, and more innovation in prevention and treatment are needed.
Source: BBC
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