After a significant surge in malaria transmission from 2017 to 2019, the Region witnessed a reduction in malaria cases, returning to 2015 baseline levels by 2022. Seven countries and one territory recorded decreases in the number of reported malaria cases between 2015 and 2022. Five countries and one territory were on track to achieve the target of a 75% reduction in malaria incidence and mortality by reducing the incidence of cases by 55% or more in 2022 compared with 2015. However, nine countries experienced either increases or no change in malaria incidence between 2015 and 2022.

 By 2025, more countries will likely reach or come close to the WHO’s 2025 malaria reduction target by implementing essential improvements in malaria-control programs. The goal of eliminating malaria in the Region still faces great challenges, especially in the Amazon region, due to social and environmental determinants and high dispersion of malaria in endemic areas. Elimination requires sustained efforts to interrupt transmission in the endemic areas of countries and territories. 

Recommendations 

• Implement interventions based on early malaria detection, treatment, investigation, and response of healthcare systems. 

• Support countries that are close to eliminating malaria or are preparing for certification of malaria-free status in developing a comprehensive, multisectoral plan for preventing and responding to malaria resurgence. Such plans should seek to prevent onward transmission from any imported cases and to respond immediately to cases, whether introduced or indigenous.