Framework for Artemisinin resistance prevention, containment, and elimination in South America

A longer-term objective of the framework is to eliminate P. falciparum malaria, as this will be the only sure way to avoid the selection of resistant parasites. The overarching goal of this framework is to protect ACTs – both the artemisinin component and partner drugs – as an effective treatment for P. falciparum malaria in the Americas. It is based on the Global Plan for Artemisinin Resistance Containment (GPARC) and lessons learned from ongoing artemisinin resistance containment projects in the Greater Mekong subregion.

The framework recommends expanded coverage of malaria diagnostic and treatment services, intensified vector control to drive down transmission, strengthened malaria surveillance, and increased transborder collaboration, especially in terms of efforts to control the sale and use of artemisinin monotherapies. Since it is unlikely that national malaria control programs will be able to implement all the activities described in this framework simultaneously, a list of suggested priority activities has been included in the Annex.