Health Minister Urges Rwandans to Strengthen Malaria Prevention Efforts

Health Minister Dr. Nsanzimana Sabin has issued advice on how to continue fighting malaria in Rwanda following an increase in cases in certain regions last year. He noted that mosquitoes are becoming resistant to the medicine, causing malaria to re-emerge in areas like Kicukiro, Gasabo, Bugesera, Nyamagabe, and Nyaruguru.

Jan 4, 2025 - 22:00
Feb 15, 2025 - 11:11
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Health Minister Urges Rwandans to Strengthen Malaria Prevention Efforts
Health Minister Urges Rwandans to Strengthen Malaria Prevention Efforts

This rise in cases is attributed to the improper use of medicine and mosquito control methods. Dr. Nsanzimana explained that mosquitoes have adapted to find ways to avoid traditional control methods, even biting people before they enter their homes, leading to more widespread malaria.

To combat malaria effectively, the Minister urged Rwandans to take preventive measures, such as eliminating water collection points that could harbor mosquito larvae, using mosquito nets, and avoiding sleeping in areas without nets. He emphasized that sleeping under treated nets and following other precautions are crucial in reducing malaria transmission.

Dr. Nsanzimana also reassured the public that while traditional malaria treatments are still available, new medications have been introduced to address cases where mosquitoes have developed resistance to the old ones. He encouraged people to seek medical help early, as malaria is treatable and curable if diagnosed in time.

In his call for continued action against malaria, he highlighted that without collective effort and commitment, the disease could continue to spread, impacting public health.

Written by Yvette Byukusenge