Prevention of Congenital Transmission of Malaria in Sub-Saharan African Countries: Challenges and Implications for Health System Strengthening

ABSTRACT

Objectives: Review of burden of congenital transmission of malaria; challenges of preventive measures; and implications for health system strengthening in sub-Saharan Africa. Methods. Literature from Pubmed (MEDLINE); Biomed central; Google Scholar; and Cochrane Database were reviewed. Results. The prevalence of congenital malaria in sub-Saharan Africa ranges from 0 to 23. Diagnosis and existing preventive measures are constantly hindered by weak health systems and sociocultural issues. WHO strategic framework for prevention intermittent preventive therapy (IPT); insecticide-treated nets (ITNs); and case management of malaria illness and anaemia remain highly promising; though; specific interventions are required to strengthen the health systems in order to improve the effectiveness of these measures. Conclusion. Congenital malaria remains a public health burden in sub-Saharan Africa. Overcoming the challenges of the preventive measures hinges on the ability of national governments and development partners in responding to the weak health systems