By Bill W. Cooper
The Ministry of Ministry (MOH), in collaboration with the RBM Partnership to end Malaria, has launched the 2022 Liberia Malaria Indicator Survey (LMIS) Report, in an effort to understand and combat the prevalence of malaria across the country.
The comprehensive survey, launched at the MOH in Paynesville, aims to provide crucial insights into the current state of malaria in the country, enabling targeted interventions and effective policies to reduce its burden on the population.
Malaria is a persistent health challenge in Liberia, causing significant morbidity and mortality rates, particularly among vulnerable populations such as children and pregnant women and elderly people.
Realizing the importance of accurate data to inform policy decisions, the MOH, with support from international and local partners, including RBM Partnership to End Malaria, initiated the 2022 LMIS to assess the prevailing malaria situation and identify areas for intervention.
Accordingly, the LMIS further provides population-based estimates on malaria indicators, including malaria prevention, case management, and prevalence of malaria and anemia to inform strategic planning and program evaluation.
Furthermore, the survey was also intended to assess the knowledge and behavior of the population regarding malaria prevention and control measures, employing a robust methodology, including household interviews and antimalarial treatment, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of the malaria landscape across the country.
Officially launching the LMIS, World Health Organization (WHO) Resident Representative, Peter Clement, said the survey report presents a wealth of data regarding the prevalence, prevention, and treatment of malaria in Liberia.
He stated that it also highlights key indicators such as the percentage of households owning insecticide-treated bed nets, the utilization of preventive measures, the prevalence of malaria in children under five years of age, and the coverage of antimalarial treatment interventions.
This, the WHO Resident Rep. maintained, that these indicators further provide valuable insights into the success and gaps in current malaria control programs and lay the groundwork for strategic interventions.
According to him, the 2022 LMIS report not only sheds light on the malaria burden, but also identifies challenges and opportunities for improvement, adding, “So, by analyzing the data, policymakers and stakeholders can identify regions with high malaria prevalence, develop targeted interventions, and allocate resources efficiently.”
“Furthermore, the report aims to strengthen partnerships and collaboration between the government, civil society organizations, and international donors to maximize the impact of malaria control efforts across Liberia and the WHO is grateful to form part of this launch,” he added.
Earlier, Health Minister, Wilhelmina Jallah, disclosed that, with the launch of the 2022 LMIS, government, through the MOH and its partners, has laid a strong foundation for evidence-based decision-making.
According to her, the data collected will enable policymakers to design and implement malaria control strategies tailored to the specific needs of different regions, adding that the report will serve as a valuable resource for international donors, guiding their contributions towards impactful initiatives and interventions.
Meanwhile, Minister Jallah added that she hoped that the findings and recommendations of the report will lead to targeted interventions, improved healthcare delivery, and sustained progress in malaria control efforts throughout Liberia.
