According to the Mon National Health Committee under the New Mon State Party (NMSP), over 80 percent of the population in the NMSP-controlled Yaychaungphyar area in Mon State is currently afflicted with malaria.
Malaria strikes Yaychaungphyar with devastating regularity during the annual rainy season. Last year, approximately 40 percent of the population suffered from malaria. This year, that number has surged to nearly 90 percent.
The rise in malaria cases is not confined to Yaychaungphyar alone. In other areas like NMSP-controlled Yebyu, and Kyainseikgyi, the incidence of malaria is also on the rise.
"This year, the malaria rate is higher than usual. Yebyu, Kyainseikgyi, and Yaychaungphyar together have more than 2,500 malaria patients. In June alone, around 200 people in Yaychaungphyar were diagnosed with malaria, and the number of cases continues to increase each month," stated an official from the committee.
Annually, malaria typically increases with the onset of the rainy season in April, May, and June, peaking during July, August, and September when heavy rains prevail.
The influx of migrants driven by volatile conditions in the region, adverse climate, and a lack of mosquito nets and anti-malarial resources in forested areas, has worsened severe malaria outbreaks.
"Some individuals have relocated to NMSP-controlled areas seeking safety. During the rainy season, locals temporarily settle near forests for seasonal agriculture but lack adequate mosquito nets, posing uphilling challenges in controlling malaria infections," explained a doctor affiliated with the committee to IMNA.
The doctor added that despite the high prevalence of malaria, logistical difficulties in transportation hinder the importation of essential medicines required for effective treatment.
Currently, the committee prioritizes malaria treatment while simultaneously promoting disease prevention through educational initiatives.
Mon State shares borders with Karen State and Tanintharyi Region, where malaria outbreaks are frequent during the rainy season. In remote areas with limited transportation access, malaria recurs annually.
