Georgia: Malaria-free certification ‘a huge milestone worth marking’
- 23 January 2025, 12:00
Georgia has become the first country in the WHO European Region to be certified as malaria-free. The certification, which was granted by the WHO on 22 January 2025, is a testament to the country’s commitment to eliminating malaria and improving the health of its people.
“This is a huge milestone worth marking,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the government of Georgia, and to the strength of the country’s health system. This achievement is a model for other countries in the region and around the world.”
Malaria is a preventable and treatable disease, but it remains a major public health problem in many parts of the world. In 2020, there were an estimated 241 million cases of malaria worldwide, and 627 000 deaths. The majority of cases and deaths occur in sub-Saharan Africa, but the disease is also found in parts of Asia, Latin America and the Middle East.
Georgia was once a malaria-endemic country, with the disease being transmitted in the western part of the country. However, thanks to a comprehensive malaria control programme, the country has not reported any indigenous cases of malaria since 2013. The programme included a range of interventions, such as vector control, case management, and surveillance.
The WHO certification is a recognition of Georgia’s success in eliminating malaria. It is also a sign of the country’s commitment to continuing to improve the health of its people.
“This certification is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the government of Georgia and its partners,” said Dr Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe. “It is a major achievement that will have a lasting impact on the health of the people of Georgia.”
The WHO European Region is now malaria-free, but the disease remains a threat in other parts of the world. The WHO is working with countries to eliminate malaria and improve the health of people everywhere.
For more information, please contact:
Dr Nedret Emiroglu WHO Media Officer Tel: +41 79 897 1222 Email: emiron@who.int
WHO Regional Office for Europe Communications and Public Advocacy Tel.: +45 4533 7106 Email: ehealthcom@who.int
Georgia: Malaria-free certification ‘a huge milestone worth marking’
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