Cambodia Nears Malaria-Free Status Ahead of 2025 Goal

[geovalin]

WHO

 

Cambodia is on the cusp of eradicating malaria, with Prime Minister Hun Manet announcing remarkable progress towards the country’s 2025 target.

 

In a statement marking National Malaria Day on Friday, Hun Manet revealed that Cambodia reported just 355 malaria cases in 2024 — a 75% reduction from the previous year. Crucially, the nation has recorded no malaria-related deaths since 2018, and 2024 saw the elimination of local Plasmodium falciparum infections, the deadliest form of the disease.

 

“Cambodia is on the verge of achieving a malaria-free goal by the end of 2025,” the prime minister declared, calling on all partners and agencies to maintain momentum in the final stages of the campaign.

 

The effort has been underpinned by widespread access to accurate diagnostics and effective treatment. Dr Huy Rekol, director of the National Center for Parasitology, Entomology and Malaria Control, credited the use of Artesunate/Mefloquine (ASMQ) therapy, which he described as 100% safe and effective, for Cambodia’s success.

 

“This progress has put Cambodia among the leading nations in eliminating malaria,” Rekol said.

 

Malaria remains a significant threat in forested and mountainous regions, particularly during the rainy season. Health officials continue to urge residents in at-risk areas to sleep under insecticide-treated nets to guard against mosquito bites.

 

Once a major public health challenge, malaria’s retreat marks a major milestone for Cambodia, signalling hope not only for the kingdom but also for broader regional eradication efforts.

 

-2025-04-28