ASABA — In a renewed push to eliminate malaria, the Delta State Government has launched the distribution of 3.182 million insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) across its 25 local government areas, aiming to protect vulnerable populations and reduce the burden of the disease.
The rollout, which will span 44 days, was announced by Dr. Julie Aniah, Programme Manager for Malaria at the State Ministry of Health, during a one-day media training session held in Asaba on Monday. She said the initiative is being carried out in collaboration with the National Malaria Elimination Program (NMEP).
Dr. Aniah urged journalists to take an active role in the campaign by raising public awareness on the importance of consistent net use. “The government is eager to prevent malaria, especially through the widespread use of insecticide-treated nets,” she said.
The campaign comes as Nigeria continues to grapple with the devastating impact of malaria. According to Mr. Gbue Denen Daniel, Campaign Manager at the Society for Family Health, malaria accounts for an estimated 110 million clinically diagnosed cases annually in the country. It is responsible for about 30 percent of child deaths and 11 percent of maternal deaths.
“Malaria is the most common preventable public health problem in Nigeria, yet it takes a lethal toll on 97 percent of Nigerians, particularly children under five and pregnant women,” Daniel said. He added that the disease is also a leading cause of absenteeism in schools and workplaces, reducing productivity and placing an enormous economic burden on the nation.
He stressed the importance of preventive measures, especially sleeping under properly hung nets every night. “It’s not just a health issue; it’s an economic one. Billions of naira are lost annually to treatment, prevention efforts, and reduced work hours.”
Daniel also advised proper care of the treated nets, encouraging users to wash them only with mild soap when dirty and avoid using detergents that can strip the nets of their protective chemicals.
The state-wide campaign underscores the government’s commitment to combating malaria and improving public health through preventive measures.
