Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) released the following statement to mark World Malaria Day, April 25, 2020:

              “As prime author of a law to provide funds to combat malaria, HIV/AIDs and other diseases,  and as co-chairman of the House Malaria Caucus, I remain deeply concerned that globally, 228 million people suffer from malaria with 405,000 deaths in 2018.

              “The  President’s Malaria Initiative (PMI) notes with alarm that ‘Children under age five accounted for more than two-thirds (67 percent) of all malaria deaths. PMI’s programs prioritize pregnant women and children by delivering targeted interventions.’

           “Since 2006, in countries where the President’s Malaria Initiative has engaged, there has been a 27% decrease in malaria cases, and a 60% decline in death rates. 

             “Last year alone, the U.S. assisted 27 high risk countries with $729 million that funded:

• 77 million rapid diagnostic tests,

• 79 million malaria medicines dispensed,

• 47 million mosquito nets,

                “Nothing But Nets, has done an amazing job by raising over $70 million to deliver over 13 million bed nets since 2006.

             “Much progress achieved, more needs to be done.”                           

PHOTO:  In March, Smith was recognized by the United Nations Foundation for his longstanding leadership in the fight against malaria, including his work on leading the House Caucus on Malaria and Neglected Tropical Diseases. Peter Yeo, the Senior Vice President at the UN Foundation, praised Smith as a “champion” and “ally” in the fight against malaria. Yao presented Smith with an award that read: “United Nations Foundation 2020 Congressional Leadership Award, Congressman Chris Smith, for His Steadfast Leadership in the Fight to End Malaria.”

###