Fifth MRG Meeting
The Malaria Reference Group (MRG) held its fifth meeting in Brisbane on May 3-5, 2010. Country reports confirmed a continued reduction in annual parasite incidence rate (API) achieved in the Solomon Islands (from 82.3 per 1,000 in 2008 to 76.9 per 1,000 in 2009) and a slight increase in Vanuatu (13.6 per 1,000 in 2008 to 15.6 in 2009) as a result of more rigorous testing and reporting processes. Both countries have maintained good reductions in hospital admissions for severe or complicated malaria, malaria in children less than 5 years of age, and presumed or confirmed malaria deaths.
Challenges for 2010 include completion of distribution of 361,000 long lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) in Solomon Islands and 107,000 in Vanuatu, coupled with intensified spraying of high-risk households, ensuring universal access to rapid diagnosis and effective treatment, the human resources to manage these interventions, and timely reporting of achievements (including to relevant donors).
Malaria Steering Committees in both countries are emerging as an effective mechanism for program management and development partner coordination. Both countries are seeking better linkage of their malaria programs with broader primary and preventive care and other aspects of the health system, especially in remote communities and outer island provinces. Late commencement of work supported by the Global Fund RCC grant, and related reporting requirements, require vigorous action over the coming months.
