Uganda flags off distribution of 27 mln mosquito nets in renewed fight against malaria

Uganda's Ministry of Health on Tuesday flagged off the distribution of 27 million mosquito nets as the country renews its fight against malaria, one of the killer diseases.

Diana Atwine, permanent secretary at ministry of health flagged off the distribution of the long-lasting insecticide-treated mosquito nets to districts across the country, under the third universal coverage campaign.

"We are starting with districts that were affected by flooding in eastern region and northern Uganda that have recorded higher cases of malaria," said Atwine.

"We will be distributing over 27 million nets to all districts in Uganda. We expect to complete this exercise by the end of this calendar year," she added.

The countrywide campaign that was meant to kick off in April was interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

"We were not able to start as scheduled because of the lockdown but now that it has been partially lifted, we can continue as planned," said Atwine.

Under the free mosquito net distribution, the ministry targets to have all citizens sleep under a mosquito net every night to prevent malaria.

Malaria kills between 70,000 to 100,000 people in the country annually, mostly pregnant mothers and children, according to the ministry of health figures.

The country has made notable progress in the fight against malaria, with the disease prevalence rate dropping from 19 percent to 9 percent, according to the 2018/19 Malaria Indicator Survey.

The progress has been attributed to the continuous distribution of mosquito nets, case management, and indoor residue spraying. (Xinhua)
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