Regional approach against infectious diseases is the way forward

The issue of cross-border transmission of infections, especially pertaining to the fight against malaria, is something that various participants at the Malaria Forum in Kigali have discussed in detail. Unless this issue is tackled, the stated theme and goal of the meeting, ‘how to sustain achievements and get zero malaria deaths in Rwanda’, will remain unattainable.It makes very little sense to attempt to ensure that people living within Rwanda’s borders are malaria free while doing nothing about the malaria issue in neighbouring states. As the World Health Organisation representative rightly stated, there is need for cross-border screening to decrease the import of the disease.Ministry of Health statistics show that 10 districts bordering neighbouring countries have a higher Malaria prevalence compared to the rest. Malaria isn’t the only infectious disease that we should be wary about however. As recently as July, cases of Ebola ravaged parts of Western Uganda.But while experts discuss screening procedures, they must also ensure that cross-border trade and movement isn’t hampered. In order to do that, regional governments must discuss how to implement the screening process. In many countries, visitors have to show proof that they’ve taken shots for Yellow Fever and Tuberculosis before they are admitted. This has reduced the prevalence of the cross-border infections of these diseases. It is essential that whatever decision made, is agreed upon by all the various stakeholders.

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Regional approach against infectious diseases is the way forward