Georgia: Malaria-free certification ‘a huge milestone worth marking’
23 January 2025
Georgia has become the first country in the WHO European Region to be certified malaria-free.
The certification was granted by the WHO after a rigorous assessment process that confirmed that the country has not had any locally transmitted cases of malaria for the past 3 consecutive years.
“This is a huge milestone worth marking,” said Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe. “It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the government, health workers and communities in Georgia. It is also a sign of hope for other countries in the region that are working to eliminate malaria.”
Malaria is a deadly disease that is transmitted by mosquitoes. It is a major public health problem in many parts of the world, particularly in Africa.
In Georgia, malaria was once a common disease. In the 1990s, there were an estimated 10,000 cases of malaria per year. However, thanks to a concerted effort by the government, health workers and communities, the number of cases has declined dramatically in recent years.
In 2016, Georgia reported its last locally transmitted case of malaria. Since then, the country has continued to strengthen its malaria surveillance and prevention systems.
“We are very proud of this achievement,” said Dr Amiran Gamkrelidze, Minister of Health of Georgia. “It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in the fight against malaria in Georgia.”
The WHO certification is a major step forward in Georgia’s efforts to eliminate malaria. However, the country will need to continue to work hard to maintain its malaria-free status.
“We will not be complacent,” said Dr Gamkrelidze. “We will continue to invest in malaria surveillance and prevention, and we will work closely with our partners to ensure that Georgia remains malaria-free.”
The WHO is committed to supporting Georgia and other countries in their efforts to eliminate malaria.
“We believe that a malaria-free world is possible,” said Dr Kluge. “We will continue to work with our partners to make this a reality.”
Georgia: Malaria-free certification ‘a huge milestone worth marking’
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