National Center for Parasitology, Entomology and Malaria Control

A tiny mosquito buzzed past my ear. It reminded me of the crucial work happening right here at the National Center for Parasitology, Entomology and Malaria Control in Phnom Penh. The National Center for Parasitology, Entomology and Malaria Control, often referred to as CNM, plays a vital role in Cambodia’s public health. It directs and supervises the control of vector-borne diseases across the country. The CNM isn’t just about fighting diseases. It also develops health education programs and conducts important scientific research. The center tackles four main disease threats: malaria, dengue hemorrhagic fever, filariasis and schistosomiasis, and intestinal parasitic infections. The National Center for Parasitology, Entomology and Malaria Control collaborates with several international organizations. These include the World Health Organization, the World Bank, and USAID. Domestically, it works with various ministries, such as the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport. Cambodia has made remarkable progress in malaria control. There haven’t been any malaria-related deaths reported since 2018. The National Center for Parasitology, Entomology and Malaria Control has been instrumental in this achievement. They’ve implemented effective strategies like the 1-3-7 surveillance approach. This involves reporting confirmed cases within one day, investigating them within three days, and taking control measures within seven days. They also utilize directly observed therapy and follow-up microscopy. Between 2000 and 2019, malaria cases in Cambodia decreased by a staggering 80%, and malaria deaths dropped by 100%. The National Center for Parasitology, Entomology and Malaria Control aims to eliminate Plasmodium falciparum malaria by 2023. They also aim to eliminate all other malaria species by 2025. Their dedication and hard work give hope for a malaria-free future for Cambodia.