Eradication of malaria from Singapore
Goh, K.T.
Singapore Medical Journal 24(5): 255-268
1983
ISSN/ISBN: 0037-5675 PMID: 6669988 Document Number: 197724
The comprehensive system of antimalaria drainage and oiling program developed since 1911 has been very successful in the control of malaria in Singapore. In the 1970s, there was a resurgence of local malaria, as massive land development created environmental conditions favorable for the breeding of Anopheles vectors while the need to import labourers from malarious countries further increased the risk of transmission. A new control strategy with emphasis placed on epidemiological and vector surveillance was implemented in 1975. This was efficient in recognizing the primary focus of transmission at an early stage for epidemic control measures to be taken to prevent secondary transmission of infection. Singapore was certified by the WHO on Nov. 22, 1982 as having achieved the status of malaria eradication. Vigilance must be maintained indefinitely as the country remains both receptive and vulnerable to the reintroduction of malaria.