Medical experts highlight India’s malaria-free status faces misdiagnosis, treatment delays & neglected urban infrastructure

India has made notable progress in reducing malaria, with cases dropping by nearly 80% from 2015 to 2023 and fatalities falling to just 83 in 2023. While the WHO has applauded India’s sustained efforts, medical experts caution that significant challenges remain. Misdiagnosis, delayed treatment, and urban infrastructure failures continue to threaten the country’s malaria elimination goals. Malaria symptoms often resemble other illnesses, leading to frequent errors in diagnosis. In rural areas, self-medication and delayed testing can result in severe complications, especially in Plasmodium falciparum cases, which can cause cerebral malaria if untreated. Urban centers, though better equipped, face rising malaria transmission due to poor sanitation and unplanned growth. Experts emphasize that medical solutions alone are insufficient; addressing malaria in cities requires coordinated civic planning and sustained public health action. Early diagnosis and integrated responses are crucial to prevent long-term health effects and achieve lasting malaria control.

04-05-2025