Doctors and Volunteers Fight Malaria with Nets, Tests, and Knowledge

The 2020 World Malaria Report estimated that 20.4 million Yemenis (65% of the total population) live in areas that are at high risk of transmission. Malaria is endemic in Hajar District, where torrential rainfall and subsequent pooling have created a fertile breeding ground for mosquitoes, cut off arterial roads to hospitals, and resulted in a large number of deaths.

According to Dr. Abdullah Awad Ali Bahendi, a father of six, who is also the Director of the Health and Population Office in Hajar District, Hadhramout Governorate, and Director of the Hospital for the Deceased Shazly Bin Hajar:

“Malaria had been similar to cholera in this district, in terms of its duration and the number of victims it claimed. Fortunately, since residents have become more aware of the symptoms, they tend to take medication before it advances into cerebral malaria.”

Thanks to a partnership between the World Health Organization (WHO) and the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief), residents have been given mosquito nets, aerosol sprays, free diagnostic tests, and medicine. To this end, seven centers were established to treat fevers in Aden, Lahj, Taiz, Al-Hodeidah, Hajjah, Shabwa, and Hadhramout, and 1,000 healthcare workers were trained on how to manage the disease and educate the public on warning signs.

Volunteers monitor cases early, educate the population about the importance of using mosquito nets, and raise awareness of malaria symptoms so that patients will know when to visit health centers and can receive timely interventions.

The Hospital of the Deceased Shazly Bin Hajar provides many services, including emergency obstetrical care and operations, as well as primary healthcare for nutrition, routine vaccinations, pediatrics, and reproductive health. Now, it is also home to a dedicated malaria unit, with specialized clinics.

Sabah Ahmed Muhammad Baeisa, a volunteer in the malaria program in Hajar District

Sabah Ahmed Muhammad Baeisa, one of the volunteers in the malaria program in Hajar District, was highly motivated to be part of the outreach team: “I received training in the malaria control program so that I could help any patient I encountered by knowing the causes and symptoms that accompany the infection. I learned how to conduct quick diagnostic testing, provide free medicine, and raise awareness to prevent malaria.”

A supply of free medicine from the WHO and KSrelief

Sabah Ahmed Muhammad Baeisa during a field visit

During each field visit, Sabah canvasses 20 homes, and educates mothers and families about the need to protect themselves and their children from malaria. “We have achieved success, and the infection rate has diminished to the point that it is almost disappearing,” she concludes.

Story and Photos: WHO-Yemen

Created By

Laila Asda

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