Ambassador Nicole D. Theriot recently delivered remarks at the launch of a mass net distribution campaign in Region 9, Guyana. The event was attended by various health officials, including Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony and representatives from the Ministry of Health and PAHO.
In her speech, Ambassador Theriot expressed gratitude to the people of Aishalton for their warm welcome and commended the Ministry of Health for its efforts to protect vulnerable populations from malaria. She highlighted the ambitious goal set by the Ministry to make Guyana malaria-free by 2030.
Theriot emphasized the role of USAID and its partner, Breakthrough Action, in supporting these efforts over the past seven years with more than $5.2 million in technical assistance. She stated that long-lasting insecticide-treated nets (L-L-I-Ns) are among WHO's most effective strategies for preventing malaria.
To achieve global malaria elimination, Theriot noted that it is crucial to ensure 80% bed net coverage in endemic communities while expanding access to information and raising awareness about using L-L-I-Ns. According to scientific studies mentioned by Theriot, using these nets can reduce clinical episodes of uncomplicated malaria by 50% and severe cases by 45%. They also decrease miscarriages and stillbirths during pregnancy by 33%.
The ambassador announced that some long-lasting insecticide-treated nets donated by USAID through the Regional Malaria Program in Latin America and the Caribbean were being distributed at the event. She expressed hope that this donation would support Guyana's government and citizens in protecting communities from malaria.
Theriot concluded her remarks by encouraging attendees to obtain their free nets, use them diligently, and take care of them as they serve as a primary defense against mosquitoes responsible for spreading malaria.