WHO declares Suriname malaria-free, a first for Amazon region

Suriname has been certified malaria-free by the World Health Organization, becoming the first country in the Amazon region to achieve this status. This marks the culmination of nearly 70 years of effort to eliminate the disease. The WHO's certification recognizes Suriname's success in interrupting indigenous malaria transmission for at least three years. The country achieved this through widespread diagnosis, treatment, and community engagement, particularly in remote areas. Suriname's achievement, with its last locally transmitted case in 2018, highlights the possibility of malaria elimination in challenging environments. The country's success will boost its healthcare, economy, and tourism.