During 2024–2025, PAHO provided sustained technical support to Ecuador to advance toward malaria elimination in zones 4 and 8 of the country, within the framework of the Disease Elimination Initiative.

Cooperation focused on strengthening active epidemiological surveillance, with emphasis on the early detection of imported cases, timely diagnosis, immediate treatment, and rapid response through the detection and diagnosis, treatment, investigation and response (DTIR) strategy. PAHO supported microplanning, systematic case review, and the strengthening of technical and operational capacities of the malaria program at both central and zonal levels. This support contributed to improved outbreak containment, optimized interinstitutional coordination, and reduced risk of sustained local transmission.

The territorial advances reinforce the sustainability of elimination actions, protect populations in situations of vulnerability, and strengthen the health system’s capacity to prevent the reintroduction of the disease, contributing to the reduction of the malaria burden and lasting public health outcomes.

Photo caption: A specialist conducts malaria testing in the community of Wachirpas, Ecuador

Credit: PAHO - Roberto Peñafiel