Addressing hard-to-reach populations for achieving malaria elimination in the Asia Pacific Malaria Elimination Network countries

Member countries of the Asia Pacific Malaria Elimination Network are pursuing the regional goal of malaria elimination by 2030. The countries are in different phases of malaria elimination, but most have demonstrated success in shrinking the malaria map in the region. However, continued transmission in hard-to-reach populations, including border and forest malaria, remains an important challenge. In this article, we review strategies for improving intervention coverage in hard-to-reach populations. Currently available preventive measures, including long-lasting insecticidal nets and long-lasting insecticidal hammocks, and prompt diagnosis and treatment need to be expanded to hard-to-reach populations. This can be done through mobile malaria clinics, village volunteer malaria workers and screening posts. Malaria surveillance in the hard-to-reach areas can be enhanced through tools such as spatial decision support systems. Policy changes by the malaria programs will be required for implementing the strategies outlined in this article. However, strategies or tools may be suitable for some population groups but difficult to implement in other groups.

Automated summary

Members of the Asia Pacific Malaria Elimination Network are working towards eliminating malaria by 2030. Although progress has been made in shrinking the malaria map in the region, challenges remain in reaching hard-to-access populations such as those in border and forest areas. Strategies to improve intervention coverage for these populations include expanding preventive measures and enhancing malaria surveillance through tools like spatial decision support systems. Policy changes and adaptations may be necessary to effectively implement these strategies across different population groups.