Abstract
Malaria is a potentially fatal infectious disease that poses a persistent global public health threat. The vast majority of mortality and morbidity in humans is the consequence of infection with either of two species of Plasmodium parasite, P. falciparum and P. vivax, that invade red blood cells. Transmission of these microscopic pathogens occurs via the bite of infectious female Anopheles spp. mosquitoes in tropical regions, including those neighboring the Mekong River. In response to widespread resistance to the first-line antimalarial drug artemisinin in Southeast Asia, in 2015 the World Health Organization proposed the Mekong Malaria Elimination Program. Launched in 2017, this aims to coordinate and advance the six Greater Mekong Subregion countries towards malaria-free status by 2030. Việt Nam has been particularly visionary, as long ago as 1991 implementing the National Malaria Control and Elimination Program to address the chronic burden of malaria outbreaks in the country’s southwest corner. Over time, epidemiological factors such as geography, socioeconomic status, and demographics have significantly influenced the stratification of malaria in the Mekong Delta. Therefore, it is imperative to conduct a comprehensive critical evaluation of the efficacy of the ongoing program by comparing national and regional perspectives. Over the past decade, Việt Nam’s national program has demonstrated significant progress in achieving the globally established goals for malaria eradication. However, persistent challenges related to resource allocation, staffing by trained personnel, and financial support highlight the need for further improvement if the ambitious 2030 target of malaria elimination is to be met.
Key words: Malaria; Plasmodium; Việt Nam; Mekong Delta; Control; Prevention; Elimination
Abbreviations: ACT, artemisinin-based combination therapy; AR, artemisinin-resistant; GMS, Greater Mekong Subregion; IRS, indoor residual spraying; ITN, insecticide-treated nets; LLHN, long-lasting insecticide-treated hammock net; LLIN, long-lasting insecticide-treated bed net; MME, Mekong Malaria Elimination; MoH, Ministry of Health; NIMPE, National Institute of Malariology, Parasitology and Entomology; NMCEP, National Malaria Control and Elimination Program; SPR, slide positivity rate; WHO, World Health Organization
