World Malaria Day was observed across the districts under the theme “Driven to End Malaria: Now We Can, Now We Must”, with programmes organised under the National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP).
In Mon, the programme was held at the conference hall of District Hospital Mon, attended by ward representatives who were urged to promote awareness, ensure cleanliness and undertake source reduction activities ahead of the monsoon season. Dr. Abenthung Murry, district Vector Borne Disease Officer, presented an overview of the malaria situation, noting that Mon recorded its first imported P. vivax case in October 2025, followed by indigenous cases rising to 77 by December 2025.
From January to April 2026, 20 cases have been detected, most of whom have recovered. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Supongmenla Walling, special guest, stressed early treatment and completion of medication, highlighting availability of effective drugs like injectable artesunate free of cost. She also called for preventive measures including elimination of breeding sites and suggested introduction of larvivorous fish. The programme featured speeches, invocation and vote of thanks by district officials.
In Kohima, the day was observed across all five blocks with intensive monitoring and supervision carried out from April 20 to 24. NVBDCP staff conducted house-to-house awareness campaigns on malaria and other vector-borne diseases. Mass screening camps were organised in high-risk villages, prioritising vulnerable groups, while miking was undertaken to ensure widespread awareness.
In Zunheboto, the programme was held at the CMO’s conference hall where Deputy Commissioner Dharam Raj graced the occasion as special guest.
He emphasised hygiene and community participation in malaria elimination. Dr. Esther Kath, District Programme Officer, presented the status of malaria and ongoing control measures. A District Task Force meeting was also convened to review strategies. Routine monitoring and supervision were conducted in high-burden blocks and villages from April 20 to 24.
World Malaria Day cum District Task Force (DTF) for malaria elimination meeting was commemorated at the CMO’s conference hall, Longleng, on April 25.
Delivering the keynote address, SDO (C) Longleng, P. Pukha Lam, lauded the DVBO and staff for their tireless efforts in malaria surveillance and prevention. He stressed the importance of community participation and urged line departments, NGOs and civil societies to actively engage in awareness drives, cleanliness campaigns and proper use of mosquito nets.
DVBO Longleng, Dr. K. Manan Phom, presented a review of the malaria programme, highlighting the present status of cases, source reduction and the role of DTF in advocacy and partnership. Member of the Malaria Expert Committee, Dr. Joshua (MD, Medicine DH), shared detailed insights on malaria treatment, testing and elimination. The programme was chaired by consultant A. Nyumoi Phom, with invocation by SW Longting.
