Why Are Country and Sub-National Level Estimates of Malaria Burden Needed?
Information on the population at risk of malaria and incidence of disease is critical for malaria program design and implementation. Estimates of the population at risk are required to quantify the need for preventive interventions such as insecticide-treated bednets and indoor residual spraying and to guide disease surveillance strategies. Information on the incidence of disease, and its severity, is needed to determine the demand for treatment of uncomplicated and severe malaria. Once available, the data can be compared with existing levels of service provision to identify underserved populations and, in situations of resource constraint, to target interventions to high-priority areas. Information on the incidence of disease in relation to historical levels can also alert programs of epidemics so that intensified control measures can be applied. Finally, data on changes in disease incidence and mortality are needed to judge the success of program implementation and to determine wheth
