Malaria Prevention: Bauchi Launches Third Phase Of SMC

Bauchi State government has launched the third phase of Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention (SMC) as part of its efforts to reduce the malaria burden in the state. The integrated interventions include the distribution of Insecticide-Treated Nets (ITNs), indoor residual spraying (IRS), prompt diagnosis, and treatment.

The Executive Chairman of Bauchi State Agency for the Control of Malaria (BACATMA), Adamu Umar Sambo, highlighted the effectiveness of SMC in protecting children under five during the malaria season. Despite progress, Bauchi State still faces a high malaria prevalence rate of 32%, higher than the national average.

The SMC campaign aims to avert millions of malaria cases and ensure that children receive preventive treatment. Challenges include community awareness and access to treatment, emphasizing the importance of sustained media engagement to promote malaria prevention messages effectively.