Climate Change Fuels Malaria Surge in Pakistan: Over 2 Million Cases Annually

Pakistan is witnessing a significant increase in malaria cases, with over 2 million reported annually, a surge attributed to climate change factors such as rising temperatures and frequent flooding. The World Health Organization (WHO) and Pakistan’s Ministry of National Health Services have issued warnings about the escalating situation, emphasizing the urgent need for coordinated action.

Alarming Rise in Malaria Cases

The devastating floods of 2022 have been a major contributor, adding approximately 6.6 million new malaria cases between 2022 and 2024. In 2023 alone, cases surged to 2.7 million, a stark increase from 399,000 in 2021. The WHO’s data indicates that the total malaria burden in the Eastern Mediterranean Region reached 12 million cases in 2023, marking a 137% increase compared to 2015.

Contributing Factors

Several factors have exacerbated the malaria crisis in Pakistan:​

• Climate Change: Rising temperatures and increased rainfall have created favorable conditions for mosquito breeding.​
• Flooding: Frequent floods have led to stagnant water bodies, serving as breeding grounds for mosquitoes.​
• Healthcare Challenges: Limited access to quality healthcare, especially in regions like Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Sindh, hampers effective disease management.​
• Security Concerns: Deteriorating security in certain areas restricts the implementation of health interventions.​

Response and Mitigation Efforts

Despite the challenges, significant strides have been made in combating malaria:​

• Screening and Treatment: In 2024, over 11.4 million suspected cases were screened, and 2 million confirmed cases were treated, with support from WHO and the Global Fund.​
• Preventive Measures: Distribution of insecticide-treated nets increased substantially, with over 7.8 million nets provided in high-risk districts in 2024, up from 2.7 million in 2023.​

The WHO has expressed confidence in Pakistan’s efforts, emphasizing that with sustained investment and collaboration, malaria elimination is achievable.

As Pakistan grapples with the dual challenges of climate change and public health, intensified efforts and international support are crucial to curb the malaria surge and protect vulnerable populations.