The World Health Organization has certified Timor-Leste as malaria-free, recognizing that the country has interrupted local transmission nationwide for at least three consecutive years. It is the third country in WHO’s South-East Asia region to receive the certification, after the Maldives and Sri Lanka, certified in 2015 and 2016 respectively.
Timor-Leste recorded more than 223,000 clinically diagnosed cases at the peak of its malaria burden in 2006. Indigenous cases fell to zero from 2021 onwards. WHO said the certification follows proof, beyond reasonable doubt, that local transmission has been interrupted across the country for the required period.
The country established its National Malaria Programme in 2003, a year after gaining independence. Subsequent measures included rapid diagnostic tests, combination drug treatment, free insecticide-treated mosquito nets and indoor spraying. Health services also expanded diagnosis through local health posts and outreach to rural communities.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus credited political commitment, coordinated interventions, investment and health workers for the achievement. Timor-Leste’s Health Minister, Élia António de Araújo dos Reis Amaral, said continued vigilance and community action would be needed to prevent malaria from returning.
With Timor-Leste’s certification, WHO has recognized 47 countries and one territory as malaria-free.
Sources: WHO News.