Malaria control in Iran--present and future.

ABSTRACT

The malaria eradication campaign in Iran, which started in 1958, has not been able to achieve its final goals. The technical, administrative, socio-economic and financial obstacles involved in this unfinished task are mentioned and the present status of malaria in the country is discussed. It is urged that eradication policy, presently used, be substituted by malaria control program, as defined by The World Health Organization. This would serve as a prerequisite for eventual eradication of malaria, from the country, in the future. Within such agreement, the improvement of basic health services and search for better technical means of controlling the transmission of the infection are emphasized as vital to achieve this goal. Intensive training of experienced staff, in Iran, for stimulation and promotion of relevant research and training activities in malaria control is highly recommended.