Keeping the momentum: suggestions for treatment policy updates in the final push to eliminate malaria in India

Malaria case management with prompt and effective treatment is critical to minimize morbidity and mortality, reduce transmission and to prevent the emergence and spread of anti-malarial drug resistance. India has the highest burden of malaria in South East Asia Region and has made impressive progress in the reduction of the malaria burden in recent years. Since the last revision to the Indian national malaria treatment policy in 2013, guidelines on new treatment strategies have been published for the control/ elimination of malaria by the World Health Organisation (WHO). The most recent update was in March 2023 based on the new evidence available. India's success is the Region's success. Therefore, to meet the national as well as regional targets of elimination, the Indian National Programme needs to consider WHO guidelines, deliberate with stakeholders and experts so as to tailor and adapt to the local context, and update National policies to incorporate the relevant ones. Technical aspects of new WHO guidelines which need to be considered for updating India's treatment policy are discussed.

Automated summary

Prompt and effective treatment is crucial in managing malaria cases to minimize morbidity and mortality rates, reduce transmission, and prevent the emergence and spread of drug resistance. India, having the highest burden of malaria in the Southeast Asia Region, has made significant progress in reducing the disease burden. WHO has published new treatment strategy guidelines for malaria control and elimination, and updating national policies in India to align with these guidelines is necessary to meet elimination targets. This article discusses the technical aspects of the new WHO guidelines that should be considered for updating India's treatment policy.