Algeria Faces Malaria, Diphtheria Outbreaks

Northern Mali is facing a severe health crisis with a significant outbreak of malaria and diphtheria, exacerbated by flooding and ongoing insecurity, leading to nearly 13,000 new malaria cases and 59 deaths reported this year. The humanitarian situation is dire, with a growing number of internally displaced persons struggling to access care due to dysfunctional health structures and severe shortages of medical supplies. Meanwhile, Algeria has reported cases of malaria and diphtheria in its southern regions, attributing the spread to migrants from Mali and Niger, despite being certified malaria-free by the WHO in 2019. The Algerian Health Ministry has responded by dispatching medical teams and supplies to affected areas, emphasizing the situation is under control and that extensive vaccination campaigns have been implemented. Algeria's health officials are closely monitoring the situation, reiterating their preparedness to manage the diseases. The contrasting responses highlight the challenges posed by regional health crises and the impact of migration on disease transmission.