Aizawl: With 16,899 malaria cases recorded in 2024, Mizoram continues to battle the highest malaria burden in the country. Against this alarming backdrop, the World Malaria Day 2025 observance was held yesterday at Dawrpui Multipurpose Centre under the theme “Malaria Ends with Us: Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite.” The event was organized by the Health & Family Welfare Department and was graced by Health Minister Lalrinpuii as Chief Guest, with Dr. Lalthlengliani, Principal Director, presiding.
The event served as a key platform to assess the malaria situation in Mizoram, with participation from local leaders and stakeholders from high-incidence areas. Discussions focused on challenges, community responses, and the need for intensified public health action.
In her address, Minister Lalrinpuii shared sobering statistics: 18,005 cases and 13 deaths were recorded in 2023, while 16,899 cases and 7 deaths occurred in 2024. She emphasized that Mizoram currently holds the highest malaria incidence rate among Indian states, making collaborative efforts between the government, community, and health workers more critical than ever.
She outlined the government’s ongoing interventions—accurate diagnostics, timely treatment, Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS), and the distribution of Long Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLINs)—as essential tools in fighting the disease. “These tools must be used effectively and responsibly to protect our communities,” she stated.
Minister Lalrinpuii urged continued commitment toward achieving a malaria-free Mizoram, calling on all citizens to support healthcare workers and preventive efforts.
Dr. Chawngthanchhunga, Additional Director and State Program Officer (VBD), presented an overview of Mizoram’s malaria trends, while Dr. Hmingthanmawii, Director of Health Services, delivered the vote of thanks.
Mizoram remains in Category III based on its Annual Parasite Incidence (API), which stood at 13.24 cases per 1,000 people in 2024. Lawngtlai, Lunglei, Mamit, and Siaha districts recorded the highest case numbers. Of the 16,899 malaria cases in 2024, 8,950 were Plasmodium falciparum (the more severe form), and 7,943 were Plasmodium vivax.
Encouragingly, among the state’s 967 villages, 463 were classified with zero API—a hopeful sign of progress toward malaria elimination.
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