KKN Gurugram Desk | The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially certified Georgia as a maleria-free country. With this certification, Georgia joins 45 other countries and one territory that have reached this significant milestone, showcasing global progress in the fight against malaria elimination.

A Long Battle with Maleria in Georgia

Malaria has been a persistent issue in Georgia for centuries. Before the 20th century, at least three species of the malaria parasite—Plasmodium falciparum, Plasmodium malariae, and Plasmodium vivax—were widespread in the region. In the 1920s, around 30% of Georgia’s population was affected by malaria, with Plasmodium vivax being the most prevalent species.

WHO European Region: One Step Closer to Maleria-Free Status

With Georgia’s success, Turkey remains the only country in the WHO European Region that has not yet been certified as malaria-free.

WHO’s Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus congratulated Georgia, stating, “The people of Georgia have worked for decades to eliminate malaria. Their success gives us hope that a malaria-free world is possible.”

WHO Certification Requirements

According to the WHO, a country must prove that local maleria transmission has been interrupted nationwide for at least three consecutive years to be eligible for malaria-free certification.

Decades of Efforts and Strategies

Georgia began its malaria control efforts in the early 20th century:

• 1940: Large-scale mosquito control initiatives significantly reduced malaria cases.
• 1953: Transmission of Plasmodium falciparum was halted.
• 1960: Plasmodium malariae was eliminated.
• 1970: Plasmodium vivax was eradicated.

However, due to the disruptions caused by World War II, healthcare services were stretched, and malaria resurfaced due to population movements.

Malaria Resurgence in 2002

In 2002, Georgia reported 474 malaria cases, prompting renewed efforts to combat the disease.

• 2005: Georgia signed the Tashkent Declaration, committing to malaria elimination alongside nine other countries in the WHO European Region.
• 2009: The country reported zero indigenous malaria cases.
• 2015: All 53 countries in the WHO European Region, including Georgia, reported no indigenous malaria cases.

Certification Process in 2024

In 2024, WHO conducted a thorough review of Georgia’s healthcare system. It found that strong public-private cooperation, political commitment, and sustained investment played crucial roles in maintaining the malaria-free status.

WHO European Region’s Success

Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO’s Regional Director for Europe, said, “This success shows how sustained investment, the dedication of the health workforce, and effective prevention, early detection, and treatment efforts can make an entire region malaria-free.”

Future Challenges and Commitment

In 2017, Georgia signed the Ashgabat Statement, reaffirming its commitment to maintaining a malaria-free status. This success has boosted Georgia’s confidence in addressing other significant health challenges.

Mikheil Sarjveladze, Georgia’s Minister of Health, emphasized, “This certification reflects the sustainability of our healthcare system, which will help us address other important health challenges with greater confidence.”

Georgia’s achievement is not just a milestone for the country but also an inspiration for the entire world. It demonstrates that with dedication, sustained effort, and the right strategies, even deadly diseases like malaria can be eradicated.

Now, with only Turkey left to be certified, the WHO European Region is on the verge of becoming the first malaria-free region in the world