LatinaLista — It is reported that every 45 seconds a child dies from malaria. In fact, malaria is a leading killer of refugees and children in Africa. This sobering stat is particularly meaningful today on World Malaria Day.
Approximately half of the world’s population is at risk from malaria, according to the World Health Organization, but the vast majority of malaria cases and malaria-related deaths occur in sub-Saharan Africa. Among officially recorded cases from 2009, Uganda and Kenya had the highest numbers, but WHO estimates that more than 90% of the world’s malaria cases — an estimated 800,000 annually — are unreported.
Ever since the world found out that the solution to the malaria crisis was as simple as getting mosquito nets to the people, there has been a worldwide movement to do just that. NothingButNets provides nets to people in African countries to keep mosquitos, the carrier insect of malaria, away from people as they sleep and in the process are impacting malaria cases.
In 11 African countries where nets have been distributed there’s been over a 50 percent decrease in deaths from malaria. Yet, mosquitos are still multiplying — all over the world — and the need for nets is ongoing and universal.
As part of today’s World Malaria Day observance, NothingButNets is kicking off a new campaign called The Champions to End Malaria Exhibit where photos of past champions — supporters who have fought against malaria — are featured in a physical (UN headquarters in NY) and virtual photo exhibit.
From actors to politicians and children who wanted to make a difference, the photos by artist Platon are stunning in their simple beauty and their message that anyone can be a Champion.
With a $10 contribution, Nothing But Nets provides individuals – from CEOs to youth, professional athletes to faith leaders – the opportunity to join the global fight against malaria by sending a net and saving a life.
The Champion campaign can be followed on Twitter with hashtag #Champion in the fight against #malaria. Help @nothingbutnets to send a net and save a life on #WorldMalariaDay.
