Ethiopia has reported 8.4 million malaria cases since the start of 2024, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
“Malaria continues to pose a public health risk in Ethiopia, reaching epidemic proportions, with an average of more than 300,000 cases reported weekly across the country,” the WHO said in a report released late Monday. The report highlighted that this is the highest number of malaria cases ever recorded in a single year.
The WHO noted that almost every district in Ethiopia has reported malaria cases, with many surpassing the epidemic threshold. Malaria is endemic in the country, particularly in areas below 2,000 meters in altitude, which covers three-quarters of the nation’s land mass and affects around 69% of the population.
Malaria typically peaks between September and December, following the primary rainy season, and again from April to May after the secondary rainy season.
The international medical charity Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has warned that an “urgent and targeted” response is necessary to control the ongoing malaria epidemic. MSF emphasized the need for preparedness in high-risk areas and vulnerable communities due to seasonal changes and population movements.
