WHO has released a new version of Malaria Threats Map – an online interactive data visualization platform that presents the latest status of the 4 major biological threats to malaria control and elimination, based on the content of 4 WHO global databases:
- insecticide resistance in malaria vectors
- P. falciparum hrp2/3 gene deletions
- antimalarial drug efficacy and resistance
- invasive mosquito vector species (such as Anopheles stephensi)
Malaria Threats Map is an essential tool to inform the development of malaria control strategies worldwide. This new version includes several new features to improve the experience of users and ensure they get the most out of the tool's wealth of content:
- a data download function to export data from 3 of the global databases – insecticide resistance in malaria vectors, antimalarial drug efficacy and resistance, and invasive malaria vector species – for both national and local analysis;
- an animated time slider to show the evolution of threats over time;
- threat status summary tables to provide an overview of the status of insecticide resistance and drug efficacy and resistance per country, as well as vector species or parasite species, insecticide or treatment;
- site pop-ups and subnational level maps to guide the deployment of pyrethroid-PBO nets by highlighting areas that comply with the 3 WHO-recommended criteria for the deployment of these nets;
- a map export function to easily integrate maps into presentations and reports;
- a user subscription page to register and receive alerts when major changes are observed in any of the threats;
- a user feedback survey function to allow users to provide feedback on what content and features they would like to see in future releases.
WHO is keen to continue improving Malaria Threats Map to better meet the needs of its user community. The Global Malaria Programme will soon hold a user consultation to inform the future development of the platform. If you would like to participate, please send a message to gmp-maps@who.int.