AU says empowerment, awareness of individuals essential to reduce effects of Malaria

Addis Ababa, April 25(ENA)-- The African Union (AU) says every one needs to be empowered with correct information as well as preventive and curative tools about malaria.

A statement issued by AU in connection with the Africa Malaria Control Day said African leaders were reminded of the immense burden of the epidemic on individuals, families communities and the nation as a whole.

It said the malaria epidemic has been killing over a million people annually and nine out of ten malaria cases occur in Africa.

Pregnant women and children especially those below five years of age are at high risk to severe and complicated malaria.

The theme for the April 25, 2003 Malaria Control Day was "Insecticide Treated Nets and Effective Malaria Treatment for Pregnant Women and Young Children by 2005".

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