By Lhakpa Quendren
Gelephu—With no indigenous malaria cases reported since November 2021, Bhutan is making the final push to achieve malaria-free status by the end of this year.
According to World Health Organisation (WHO) criteria, countries that maintain zero indigenous cases for at least three consecutive years and have a strong surveillance system in place are eligible to apply for WHO malaria-free certification.
As per the Ministry of Health, all malaria cases recorded in 2025 have been either imported or introduced, with no evidence of local transmission.
A particularly complex case from 2024 in Phibsoo, Sarpang, which had delayed investigation, was later confirmed as imported due to a major outbreak in Kokrajhar and Chirang districts of Assam, India.
Given that malaria transmission in Bhutan typically occurs in the southern regions, certification takes on added significance for the planned Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC), which is expected to draw a large population influx.
To meet the 2025 goal, the Health Ministry reaffirmed that the Vector-Borne Disease Control Programme in Gelephu is working diligently toward malaria-free certification. November 2025 will mark four full years without any local transmission.
“Bhutan’s pursuit of malaria-free certification is not just about eliminating a disease,” a health official said. “It is about laying the foundation for a healthy, sustainable, and globally respected future—especially as landmark projects like the GMC come to life.”
The ministry stated that ensuring a malaria-free environment has gone beyond being a public health goal and has become a national imperative. “This effort aligns seamlessly with Bhutan’s broader development vision, which reflects both its national priorities and global aspirations,” the official added.
Bhutan initially aimed to eliminate malaria by 2018 but revised its strategy in 2019 after falling short. The revised goal aimed to reach zero indigenous cases by 2022 and to secure WHO malaria-free certification by 2025.
Preventive measures and challenges
The National Strategic Plan for Malaria Elimination and Prevention of Re-introduction (2020–2025), aligned with the WHO E2025 initiative, outlines a long-term, community-based strategy to end indigenous transmission and sustain a malaria-free Bhutan.
A key challenge remains the persistent threat of imported cases, particularly in border areas such as Sarpang. Sustained surveillance and rapid response remain critical.
Interventions include early diagnosis and prompt treatment to reduce disease severity and prevent transmission.
“In the case of vector-borne diseases, timely treatment is crucial to interrupt the cycle of infection within the community,” said an official.
To prevent both malaria and dengue, the ministry ensures long-lasting insecticidal net coverage for at-risk populations and conducts two rounds of focal indoor residual spraying annually in high-risk zones.
Health officials confirmed that both vector and disease surveillance systems are in place to guide targeted interventions and reduce transmission risks.
“Quarterly vector surveillance is conducted across eight designated sentinel sites,” an official stated.
Under the case-based response protocol, every confirmed malaria case is reported within 24 hours, investigated and classified within 72 hours, and followed by a focus investigation and response within seven days.
The ministry has also mobilised Community Action Groups and sensitised local leaders to strengthen community involvement in prevention activities. Development partners continue to support these efforts.
Despite strong progress, challenges persist—particularly the porous southern border and high population mobility, which pose a risk of reintroduction. Given the transboundary nature of malaria, effective cross-border collaboration is essential.
The Health Ministry reported that three rounds of joint cross-border fever screening and surveillance have been carried out. “Collaboration with India has been instrumental in managing imported malaria cases in southern Bhutan,” an official said.
Going forward, Bhutan aims to strengthen its partnership with India to synchronise surveillance, monitor drug efficacy, and target high-risk groups such as migrant workers, forest-goers, and border communities.
Since launching its malaria control programme in the 1960s, Bhutan has seen a dramatic decline in cases—from 39,852 cases and 62 deaths in 1994 to fewer than 10 reported cases today. No indigenous malaria cases have been recorded in 2024.
Malaria is a potentially fatal disease caused by parasites transmitted through the bites of infected Anopheles mosquitoes. These mosquitoes thrive in warm, humid environments.
Source : kuenselonline
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