Sarpang observes World Malaria Day

 

The fifth World Malaria Day with the theme “Sustain Gains, Save Lives: Invest in Malaria” will be observed today in Norbuling under Sershong gewog, Sarpang.

About 436 malaria cases were  reported across the country in 2010 and just a year later, the cases decreased to 194 with one death.

The first World Malaria Day was celebrated in Gelephu in the year 2008 and for the second time, the health ministry is celebrating at the dungkhag.

Sr. Program Officer at Gelephu hospital said that the main objective behind choosing the place was because Gelephu is a malaria-endemic  zone.

But “we want to advocate the people and tell them that with joint effort and investment we can fight against malaria”, he said.

It is said that 57% of malaria cases originate from Sarpang which is why the  dzongkhag was chosen for the celebration.

Frequent out breaks take place at Pangkhar in Sershong and Chaskar in Chuzergang.

Gewog Administrative Officer of Sershong gewog Pema Lekshey said that since the area is malaria-prone, the villagers conduct a cleaning campaign every month during dhueza (an auspicious day for the Bhutanese) because on other days people are busy  farming.

The program today will end with a cleaning campaign in Sershong gewog and Chuzegang gewog coordinated by the Chuzergang community and schools.

The proceedings are headed by the Health Minister, Sershong community and students of Norbuling Middle Secondary School.

About 800 participants are taking part.

Places like Samtse, Samdrup Jongkhar and Phuentsholing  are also observing the day.

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