Here’s a breakdown of the provided text, focusing on the key information about Timor-Leste‘s malaria-free certification:
Main Event:
Timor-Leste has been certified malaria-free by the World Health Association (WHO). This is a significant achievement, making it the third country in the WHO South-East Asia region to reach this status, following Maldives and Sri Lanka.
What Malaria-Free Certification Means:
WHO grants this certification when a country can prove, with high certainty, that the transmission of malaria has been stopped nationwide for at least three consecutive years.
timor-Leste’s Journey:
Dramatic Reduction: Timor-Leste has seen a remarkable decline in malaria cases, from a peak of over 223,000 clinically diagnosed cases in 2006 to zero indigenous cases from 2021 onwards.
Key Strategies and Interventions:
national Malaria Program (established 2003): This dedicated program was crucial for planning, implementing, and monitoring malaria control efforts.
Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs) and Artemisinin-based Combination Therapy (ACTs): Introduced early in the National Malaria Treatment Guidelines.
Distribution of Long-Lasting Insecticide-Treated Nets (LLINs): Provided free to at-risk communities.
vector Control Scale-up (2009, with Global Fund support): included LLIN distribution and indoor residual spraying.
Expanded Diagnosis: increased use of microscopy and RDTs at health posts.
Strengthened Health System: Investment in a three-tier system (national hospitals, reference hospitals, community health centers, health posts) to ensure accessibility.
Free Worldwide Healthcare: Government policy providing free health services at the point of care.
Mobile Clinics and outreach: Enhanced services in rural areas. Integrated Case-based Surveillance System: Enabled rapid data collection and response.
Trained Health Workers: Ensured timely detection and screening of cases, including at borders.
Key Factors for Success:
Strong Country Leadership: The Ministry of Health’s commitment and swift action.
Dedicated Health Workers: Their tireless efforts and perseverance.
Community Engagement: The resolve and participation of the people.
Partnerships: Collaboration with WHO, local communities, NGOs, donors, and othre government sectors.
Vigilance and Prevention: The ongoing need to prevent the re-entry of malaria.Quotes:
Dr. Élia António de Araújo dos Reis Amaral (minister of Health, Timor-Leste): Emphasizes the victory over a “relentless enemy,” honoring lives lost and saved, and the need for continued vigilance.
* Dr. Arvind Mathur (WHO Representative to Timor-Leste): Highlights the certification as a “defining national triumph” driven by leadership, health worker efforts, and people’s resolve, noting the “grit” required to end transmission.
Overall Message:
Timor-Leste’s achievement is a testament to sustained political will, strategic interventions, strong partnerships, and the dedication of its people in eradicating a significant public health threat.
