Uganda launches anti-malaria facility as cases rise to 220 million globally
Uganda yesterday launched the anthropoid malaria containment facility aimed at furthering research on how malaria can be contained and possibly eradicated in Uganda.
The facility is located in Entebbe.
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According to the health statistics the rate of Malaria cases is alarming with 220 people infected globally which accounts the half million deaths annually.
The principal investigator of Target Malaria at Uganda Virus Research Institute, Dr Jonathan Kayondo, revealed that the facility is fitted with modern equipment that will able researchers to study mosquitoes under containment.
Kayondo said malaria is the leading cause of child mortality in Africa where 90% of cases are detected.
He noted that this new research and specialist facility will boost the capacity for scientists who do research on malaria.
Dr. Jimmy Opigo the assistant commissioner, malaria control, revealed that last year Uganda Virus Research Institute recorded 10 million malaria cases and came up with an effort called Ten plus One to fight malaria.
He revealed that malaria remains a burden because Uganda lies on the equator which is a conducive climate condition for malaria.
Ali Kirunda Kivejinja, the second deputy prime minister and minister for East African Community Affairs said the new facility will go a long way in the fight against malaria.
