Malaria control has always been a priority in Pakistan. National Malaria Control Program was started in 1950. In 1961, Malaria control Programme was converted into Malaria Eradication Program under the auspices of WHO with the financial and technical support from WHO, UNICEF and USAID. In 1977 Malaria Control Program was integrated into health services as part of Communicable Disease Control in Punjab Province. This programme forges consensus among key actors in malaria control, harmonizes action and mobilizes resources to fight malaria in endemic areas. Its aim is to reduce the malaria associated morbidity and mortality by keeping malaria under effective control. The programme has also been involved in Dengue prevention and control activities. As a result of concerted efforts the incidence of malaria has reached its lowest level in the province. Moreover, the same staff is working for prevention and control of avian pandemic influenza (AH1N1), Congo Crimean Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF), Leishmaniasis.
Program Activities
Provision of Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) kits to the health facilities where malaria microscopy services are not possible.
Provision of Radical Treatment to all the confirmed cases of malaria in accordance with National treatment policy within 24-hours of diagnosis.
All Entomologists and Communicable Disease Control (CDC) Officers in the province were trained as master trainers on integrated Vector Control Measures and Spray Operations regarding Dengue and Malaria fever.
Trainings of master trainers on Malaria Microscopy techniques were conducted at DGHS office to improve the performance in diagnosis of malaria. The master trainers trained laboratory staff at district level.
The master trainers trained the CDC Inspector and CDC Supervisors working in the districts.
Monthly review meetings regarding CDC activities at provincial level held in DGHS office under the supervision of Director Health Services in FY 2014-15. In these meetings the performance of districts were evaluated and best performing districts were awarded appreciation certificates. The best performing certificates were awarded to the districts Okara, Sahiwal, Pakpattan, Faisalabad, Jhang, Rahim Yar Khan, Muzaffargarh, Sargodha and Bahawalpur. This practice promoted CDC activities at district level and a healthy competition was observed.
Supervisory visits were conducted by the CDC staff at provincial level to various districts to check out the performance.