Rudy Swalem- Malaria

Drug resistent malaria parasites:

Drug resistance is the degree to which a disease or diseasecausing organism remains unaffected
by a drug which was previously able to eliminate it. In the case of malaria, it is the resistance of
the malaria parasite.
Widespread drug resistance against commonly used antimalaria drugs such as chloroquine and
pyrimethamine/ sulfadoxine (Fansidar) has been reported all over the world.
chloroquine-resistant falciparum malaria is now widespread (effectively
universal)
P. falciparum has also developed resistance to a variety of other agents in
certain areas.

Global strategies to prevent and control Malaria :

WHO has prioritized four main strategies for malaria control, which were endorsed by the
Global Malaria Conference for Health Ministers, held in Amsterdam in 1992:
Provision of early diagnosis and prompt treatment .
Planning and implementation of selective and sustainable prevention measures including vector
control.
Early detection, containment and prevention of epidemics.
Strengthening of local capacities in basic and applied research, for regular assessment of the
malaria situation within countries.

'Uncomplicated' malaria treatment:

In areas where chloroquine resistance is still low, chloroquine is used to treat uncomplicated malaria
cases. In many regions of the world, chloroquine is no longer effective in treating malaria, hence
second line antimalarial drugs are often used.