World Malaria Day On 25 April 2025: History, Theme, Important And Why Prevention Still Remains Important

In a 2700 BC ancient Chinese medical manuscript, there's a mysterious reference to a recurring fever that attacks seasonally: shivering, sweating, and gradual death. They didn't know it yet, but they were writing about malaria. Centuries later, in the Vedic texts of India (1500 to 800 BC), malaria was called the “king of diseases,” feared for its power to bring even the strongest to their knees.
 

And still, it lingers.
 

Malaria continues to be one of the deadliest tropical diseases, claiming over 600,000 lives annually, mostly children in sub-Saharan Africa. In India, poverty, lack of awareness, and mismanagement create the perfect storm for its spread. Caused by Plasmodium parasites and transmitted by infected Anopheles mosquitoes, malaria thrives in vulnerable regions.
 

World Malaria Day on 25 April 2025 reminds us that prevention is our most powerful weapon. It calls for responsibility, awareness, and action. World Malaria Day on 25 April 2025 isn’t just about remembrance—it’s about refusing to let this ancient enemy win again. So, in this article, let’s join hands and learn more about this day to spread awareness. 
 

Table Of Contents 

1. History of World Malaria Day 
2. What Is the Theme of World Malaria Day on 25 April 2025?
3. Importance of World Malaria Day 
4. Steps To Take For the Prevention of Malaria Disease
5. The Final Say 
6. FAQs
7. References 
    

History Of World Malaria Day 

Malaria, an illness that has plagued humanity for thousands of years, had its major advance in 1880 when French army physician Alphonse Laveran found the Plasmodium parasite in Algeria. This opened the way to understanding how malaria was transmitted and cured. In 1897, a British physician, Ronald Ross, discovered the Anopheles mosquito as a vector of malaria, and he received the Nobel Prize in 1902. Malaria killed between 150 million and 300 million people throughout the 20th century, which was 2 to 5 per cent of all deaths during this time. Campaigns against malaria strengthened in the early 2000s.
 

Forty-four countries of Africa signed the Abuja Declaration in 2000 with the view to decreasing malaria-related deaths. The result was the adoption of the Africa Malaria Day on April 25. The global nature of malaria being recognised, the World Health Assembly designated World Malaria Day in 2007 to supplant Africa Malaria Day to offer education and knowledge of malaria and disseminate information on intensified year-round implementation of national malaria-control measures. 
 

Since 2000, there has been global progress in averting an estimated 2.2 billion malaria cases and 12.7 million deaths. The efforts have saved countless lives, but despite the successes, malaria still poses a health challenge, mostly in the WHO African Region, which registered 94% of cases of malaria and 95% of malaria-related deaths in 2023.
 

Also Read: Observing World Tuberculosis (TB) Day On 24 March 2025: Uniting for a TB-Free Future — Commit, Invest, Deliver! 
 

What Is the Theme of World Malaria Day on 25 April 2025?

Malaria Ends With Us: Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite
 

The theme for World Malaria Day 2025 is a bold reminder that defeating malaria requires collective global efforts. The theme calls everyone, from people to governments, to renew their commitment, rethink current strategies, and reignite the vision for a malaria-free world. The focus is on sustainable investment, breakthrough innovation, and strong collaboration.
 

Reinvest

Malaria, a common rainy season disease in India, continues to be one of the top five causes of death in low-income countries, especially affecting pregnant women (like Zika virus infection in pregnancy) and children. Investing in malaria control is not just a health necessity—it’s a strategic economic decision. Studies show that eliminating malaria by 2030 could yield a 40:1 return on investment.
 

Reimagine

Innovative tools are reshaping malaria prevention and treatment:

• The first-ever long-acting injectable for prevention has reached trial stages.
• A Phase 3 trial is underway focusing on protecting pregnant women.
• WHO has prequalified the first single-dose treatment for P. vivax malaria.
   

Reignite

Hope is being reignited through global partnerships:

• Equitable collaborations are building stronger health networks.
• Local manufacturing initiatives in Africa are gaining momentum.
• Antimalarial solutions are becoming more accessible for vulnerable populations.
   

World Malaria Day 2025 is not just a date—it’s a call to action. The end of malaria starts with all of us working together to reinvest, reimagine, and reignite.
 

Also Read: Malaria In Pregnancy: Treatment Options to Keep You and Your Baby Safe 
 

Importance of World Malaria Day 

World Malaria Day serves as a critical reminder of the ongoing battle against malaria and the importance of sustained efforts to prevent and control this disease.
 

Understanding Malaria

Malaria is caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Plasmodium.

Types Affecting Humans

• Plasmodium falciparum: Most lethal, prevalent in Africa.
• Plasmodium vivax: Common in Asia and Latin America.
• Plasmodium ovale and Plasmodium malariae: Less common.
• Plasmodium knowlesi: Zoonotic malaria found in Southeast Asia.
   

Transmission Cycle

1. An infected female Anopheles mosquito bites a human, injecting sporozoites.
2. Sporozoites travel to the liver, maturing into schizonts.
3. Schizonts rupture, releasing merozoites into the bloodstream.
4. Merozoites infect red blood cells, leading to clinical symptoms.
5. Some parasites develop into gametocytes, which are taken up by mosquitoes during a blood meal, continuing the cycle.
    

✅ Note: India has made significant progress in malaria control over the last decade and is on track for malaria elimination by 2030 as per the National Framework for Malaria Elimination (NFME).
 

Significance of World Malaria Day

World Malaria Day emphasises the following:

• Sustained Investment: Ongoing financing is key to sustaining and strengthening malaria control and elimination.
• Innovation: New tool development, including vaccines and insecticide-treated bednets, is imperative for fighting resistance and responding to evolving transmission dynamics. 
• Global Partnership: Harmonised efforts of countries, agencies, and communities are important to tackle the complex issues of malaria.
   

Through awareness raising and partnership building, World Malaria Day is instrumental in the global campaign against malaria, seeking to decrease the disease burden and eventually have a malaria-free world.
 

Also Read: Protect Your Health: Let’s Learn How To Prevent Communicable And Non-Communicable Diseases 
 

Steps To Take For the Prevention Of Malaria Disease

Malaria may be dangerous, but the good news is—it can be prevented. With a bit of care and some simple habits, you can protect yourself and your loved ones. Here are the most effective steps, explained in a way that's easy to follow:
 

1. Sleep Under An Insecticide-Treated Bed Net

This is one of the simplest and most effective ways to stay safe. Mosquitoes that carry malaria bite mainly at night, so sleeping under a net can keep them away. Make sure the net is treated with a long-lasting insecticide (LLIN). It should cover your bed fully, be tucked under the mattress, and have no holes or tears.
 

2. Use Mosquito Repellents Regularly

Apply repellent on exposed skin, especially in the evenings. Look for products that contain DEET, picaridin or lemon eucalyptus oil. If you’re indoors, mosquito mats or plug-in vapourisers can also help keep mosquitoes at bay.
 

3. Wear Protective Clothing

When you go out in the evening, wear clothes that cover your arms and legs. Long sleeves, trousers, socks, and closed shoes create a barrier between you and the mosquito. Light-coloured clothes are better, as dark colours attract mosquitoes more.
 

4. Keep Your Surroundings Clean & Dry

Mosquitoes lay eggs in still water. Clear out stagnant water in flowerpots, coolers, tyres, and buckets. Make sure your drains and gutters are not blocked. Cover water storage containers properly and change water in pet bowls and vases regularly.
 

5. Install Mosquito Screens On Doors & Windows

Fitting mesh screens is a great way to allow fresh air in but keep the mosquitoes out. You can also use curtains treated with insecticides for an extra layer of safety.
 

6. Take Preventive Medication (If Recommended)

If you're travelling to a malaria-prone area, consult a doctor well in advance. You might be prescribed antimalarial tablets to prevent infection. It’s important to start them before the trip, take them regularly during your stay, and continue even after returning, as advised.
 

7. Be Extra Careful During The Rainy Season

Mosquitoes breed more during and after the monsoon. During this time, double your efforts—use nets and repellents every day, clear water spots, and avoid going out at dusk or dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.
 

8. Spread Awareness In Your Community

Sometimes, helping others stay safe is just as important as protecting yourself. Encourage your neighbours and friends to follow these steps too. A clean and aware neighbourhood reduces everyone’s risk.
 

Also Read: Impact of Climate Change on Human Health | ToneOp 
 

The Final Say 

From the eerie echoes of ancient scrolls to modern hospital wards, malaria has haunted humanity for centuries. It kills silently, especially where the systems fail and the poor are unheard. But prevention is still possible. World Malaria Day on 25 April 2025 is our moment to act—before another life is lost to something we can control. Let’s not let history keep repeating.
 

FAQs

1. What is the motto of Malaria Day?

The 2025 World Malaria Day theme is “Malaria Ends With Us: Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite”, emphasising renewed dedication and teamwork to eradicate malaria.
 

2. What are the different types of malaria?

Malaria is caused by several Plasmodium species: P. falciparum (most dangerous), P. vivax (can cause relapses), P. ovale (also causes relapses), P. malariae (chronic infection), and P. knowlesi (severe, found in Southeast Asia).
 

3. Is there a vaccine for malaria?

Yes, there are two WHO-approved vaccines—RTS, S and R21—both proven safe and effective, now being rolled out in many African countries as part of childhood immunisation programmes.
 

4. What are some World Malaria Day activities?

Activities include public awareness campaigns, educational workshops, community events, fundraising, health screenings, mosquito net distribution, and advocacy for malaria prevention.
 

5. How many malaria cases per year in the world and in India?

Globally, there were an estimated 263 million malaria cases in 2023, with the majority in Africa. India, being a high-burden country, contributes significantly, but the precise annual figure for India is not specified in the latest global estimate.
 

6. What are the objectives of World Malaria Day?

The day aims to raise awareness, mobilise global action, educate communities about prevention, and celebrate progress in the fight against malaria, ultimately striving for a malaria-free world.
 

References 

• https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-malaria-day 
• https://www.mmv.org/events/world-malaria-day-2025 
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_Malaria_Day 
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malaria 
   

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