Sao Tome and Principe

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Introduction

Malaria in São Tomé and Príncipe is characterized by a seasonal increase with continued transmission corresponding to the end of the rainy season and the start of the dry season which is April to June. The annual reported number of malaria cases in 2010 was 2,740 with 14 deaths.

Progress

São Tomé and Príncipe has made significant progress in malaria prevention and control leading to a tremendous reduction in malaria deaths. For 2012, the country has adequate resources for all its needs except a gap of 25,552 LLINs for 2012 and gaps in RDT needs. São Tomé and Príncipe has achieved high coverage in key MNCH interventions including DPT3 coverage, PMTCT and skilled birth attendants.

Impact

São Tomé and Príncipe has made significant progress in malaria prevention and control. Confirmed malaria cases decreased from an annual average of 38,655 during 2000–2005 to 2,740 cases in 2010. In the same period, malaria admissions fell from an annual average of 12,367 to 1,091 in 2010 and malaria deaths also fell from 162 to 14. As such the country has achieved the target of a 50% reduction in malaria burden.

Key Challenges

  • Status of implementing Community Case Management for malaria and pneumonia is unknown.
  • Rejection of some malaria services such as LLINs and IRS by some communities.
  • Delayed disbursement of Global Fund resources to prevent ACT stock outs.
  • Insecticide resistance detected to the insecticide alphacypermethrin used for IRS.

"By establishing ALMA, we are now creating a critical forum and mechanism for advocacy, action, and follow-up on the implementation of these noble malaria goals."

~ President Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, United Republic of Tanzania