This year, Niger, Georgia, and Guinea have achieved major public health milestones, eliminating river blindness, malaria, and sleeping sickness, respectively.
Niger: First in Africa to Eliminate River Blindness
River blindness, caused by a parasitic worm and spread by black flies, once affected millions. Symptoms include blindness and severe itching. Niger’s success stems from a dedicated elimination program, including regular treatment of black fly breeding sites with rotating larvicides to prevent resistance.
Georgia: Malaria-Free After Decades of Struggle
Once a widespread threat, malaria plagued 30% of Georgia’s population in the 1920s. Despite near-elimination in the 1950s, the disease resurged. In 2005, Georgia renewed its commitment through the Tashkent Declaration. With sustained investment, early detection, and effective treatment, Georgia has now become the 46th country to eliminate malaria, bringing Europe closer to becoming the world’s first malaria-free region.
Guinea: Eliminating Sleeping Sickness
Sleeping sickness, caused by tsetse fly bites, leads to neurological symptoms if untreated. Guinea’s Ministry of Health, alongside WHO and other partners, launched a national program in the 1990s, focusing on mass screenings and treatment. In 2012, vector control interventions further reduced transmission. After years of effort, Guinea now joins 15 other African nations in eradicating the disease.
WHO certifies malaria elimination when a country proves three consecutive years without local transmission—a testament to these nations' dedication to public health.
