Archbishop Celestino Migliore at the United Nations on Eradication of Malaria

(October 16, 2008) Malaria remains a major threat to human security. Because of the cost of prevention and treatment, those who live in poverty are those most susceptible to this serious disease, said Archbishop Celestino Migliore Apostolic Nuncio and Permanent Observer of the Holy See at the United Nations. He was speaking at the 63^rd session of the UN General Assembly at New York on the 15^th of October on the topic Roll Back Malaria in Developing Countries, particularly in Africa. Each year between 300 and 500 million people contract malaria which kills over 1 million people—at least one death every thirty seconds. According to the World Health Organization, 90 percent of such deaths occur in sub-Saharan Africa and the majority of victims are children under five years of age—with almost 3,000 children dying every day in that region. Furthermore, the next largest numbers of victims are pregnant mothers. In the last fifteen years there has been an increased prevalence of the disease—which could well double the death rate in the next twenty years, said the Archbishop. He expressed his satisfaction over the decision of the General Assembly to give greater attention to developing countries, especially in Africa, which is a positive step in the right direction, particularly because it recognizes that malaria can be substantially reduced by public awareness, education and committing resources toward research and treatment. He added that the focus in addressing this disease must remain on research, prevention and treatment. Individuals must be able to receive affordable, safe and, where necessary, free diagnostic testing and drugs. Proper diagnosis is available and infected individuals can make full recovery if provided with the adequate means. Efforts should be made so that appropriate treatment is accessible to those who are suffering, he said. Further the Prelate said that many Catholic organizations are deeply involved in this field, with wide and directed campaigns. He called on the global community must remain committed to fight all diseases which threaten human lives and security.