The Akwa Ibom state malaria elimination Programme has distributed over three million long lasting mosquito treated nets in the state.
The distribution is targeted at 95 percent households in the state as part of concerted efforts to reduce the burden of the disease.
John Orok, manager, malaria elimination programme in the state ministry of health who made the disclosure said the state government is determined to rid the state of the prevalence.
Speaking as part of activities marking this year’s World Malaria Day celebration, Orok, said though there has been a significant reduction in the prevalence rate of malaria, he however, lamented the low usage of mosquito nets in the state.
“We need to ensure that zero malaria starts with us, eliminating mosquito habitat and getting treated for malaria with commodities which are provided free in health facilities would go along away in ensuring zero malaria,’’ he said.
Orok who lauded the state government for “constantly upgrading health facilities and building new ones as well as employing health workers and ensuring that they are paid promptly’’ noted however that there was a still a huge funding gap in the programme.
