Mosquitoes: The Long-term Effects of Malaria Eradication in West Africa

Fabiola Mwendwa G.

School of Applied Health Sciences Kampala International University Uganda

                                          ABSTRACT

Malaria has been a critical public health issue in West Africa for centuries, resulting in widespread morbidity and mortality, especially among vulnerable groups like children and pregnant women. Recent eradication efforts, bolstered by insecticide-treated bed nets (ITNs), indoor residual spraying (IRS), and antimalarial drugs, have significantly reduced the disease burden. This review examines the long-term socio-economic impacts of malaria eradication in West Africa, including improved public health, enhanced productivity, economic growth, and better access to healthcare. The reduction of malaria-related healthcare costs has led to increased investments in education, infrastructure, and other essential services. However, challenges persist, such as insecticide resistance among mosquitoes, financial constraints, and emerging public health concerns. Ecological effects of mosquito eradication, including impacts on biodiversity and the evolution of insecticide-resistant mosquitoes, raise important considerations for future control strategies. The role of climate change in shaping mosquito ecology and malaria transmission dynamics is also explored. This review underscores the need for sustained political and financial commitment, regional collaboration, and innovation to ensure the continued success of malaria eradication in West Africa. Integrating these efforts with broader Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and addressing ecological sustainability are essential for achieving long-term health and socio-economic benefits.

Keywords: Malaria eradication, West Africa, public health, insecticide resistance, socio-economic impact, mosquito ecology.

CITE AS: Fabiola Mwendwa G. (2024). Mosquitoes: The Long-term Effects of Malaria Eradication in West Africa. Research Output Journal of Biological and Applied Science 4(1):45-50. https://doi.org/10.59298/ROJBAS/2024/414550