In sub-Saharan Africa, malaria isn’t just a lingering health issue - it's a growing threat fuelled by natural hazards, rapid urbanisation, increased mobility, and overstretched healthcare systems. For businesses operating in high-risk regions, malaria is not only a humanitarian concern but a strategic one. It disrupts operations through absenteeism, drives up medical costs, cuts productivity, and, in its most tragic form, results in the loss of life - affecting employees, communities, and the economic stability of entire regions.

The risk map shift

“As global organisations confront the complexities of public health challenges like malaria, in regions vulnerable to extreme weather, it is imperative for corporate entities to take proactive leadership roles in safeguarding their employees and communities,” says Isabelle Hagner, Director of Public Health for Middle East and Africa at International SOS. “Communities are known to be breeding grounds for asymptomatic malaria, particularly in regions where the disease is endemic, therefore a multifaceted approach is necessary, beginning with education and awareness programmes that inform individuals about prevention strategies and the importance of prompt treatment.”

While precaution and education will continuously be advised for corporations operating in endemic regions, there are also public health concerns about the rise of malaria in non-endemic regions due to natural disasters – which perpetuates the extension of the risk map.

Speaking to the shifts in malaria cases, Dr Chris van Straten, Global Health Advisor, Clinical Governance at International SOS highlights that several factors, including natural hazards and changes in transmission dynamics have influenced the frequency and severity of malaria cases in previously non-endemic areas. A great example he recalls is in northeastern Tanzania, where a study observed a significant decline in malaria prevalence from 2003 to 2014, attributed to increased use of bed nets and reduced exposure to Anopheles mosquito bites. However, a resurgence was noted after 2018, particularly in highland areas, likely driven by changing weather patterns such as increased temperatures and humidity. Recent changes in human migration patterns appear to have also affected vector dynamics.

Can surveillance systems and AI support affected regions?

Surveillance systems for malaria in non-endemic areas are being adapted through the integration of advanced diagnostic technologies and enhanced data collection methods. In non-endemic regions, where malaria is often imported and not immediately suspected by clinicians, the use of enhanced communication strategies and ultra-sensitive diagnostic tools are crucial.

“In addition to these diagnostic advancements, surveillance systems are being optimised to improve the spatial and temporal resolution of malaria data. For instance, in urban settings like Maputo, Mozambique, expanded case notification forms and geolocation of cases have been used to better characterise local epidemiological contexts, which can inform targeted interventions. This approach can be adapted to non-endemic areas to ensure that imported cases are accurately tracked and managed,” says Dr van Straten.

Furthermore, climate models are increasingly being integrated into public health planning to anticipate and mitigate the spread of malaria, particularly in the context of natural hazards. These models help predict changes in malaria transmission patterns by incorporating various climatic and environmental variables, which are crucial for the development of early warning systems and targeted interventions.

With continued urbanisation and technological advancements, digital health tools and AI are increasingly playing a role in the early detection of malaria risks.

Public health and corporate action against malaria

A big part of getting ahead of this shifting risk map relies on public health communication to get newly vulnerable regions ready and prepared to tackle the risks associated with malaria. This can be done by enhancing awareness, knowledge, and preventive practices. Effective communication strategies can significantly influence community behaviour and attitudes towards malaria prevention and control.

“Beyond that, corporates operating in these newly affected regions, are not well prepared or able to monitor these changes, which can inadvertently place their staff in harms’ way. The good news is that with the right medical partner and ability to monitor these changes and keep abreast of the ongoing research in this domain, companies can be better prepared to mitigate malaria risks,” says Hagner.

Furthermore, for corporations operating in remote and rural areas, they should leverage their influence to manage environments effectively, reducing mosquito breeding grounds through proper waste management and sustainable water management practices. Providing insecticide-treated nets and facilitating access to preventive medications can further bolster community resilience against malaria.

“This is where partnering with local healthcare initiatives and integrating emergency response plans will enhance preparedness for malaria outbreaks, especially in the aftermath of severe weather events. By embracing these strategies, organisations not only fulfil their corporate social responsibility, but also foster healthier communities, ultimately contributing to the broader goal of eradicating malaria. Collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to sustainable practices will define the corporate leadership necessary to combat public health crises of this scale,” concludes Hagner.

About the International SOS Group of Companies

The International SOS Group of Companies is in the business of saving lives, protecting your global workforce from health and security threats. Wherever you are, we deliver customised health, security risk management and wellbeing solutions to fuel your growth and productivity.

In the event of extreme weather, an epidemic or a security incident, we provide an immediate response providing peace of mind. Our innovative technology and medical and security expertise focus on prevention, offering real-time, actionable insights and on-the-ground quality delivery. We help protect your people, your organisation’s reputation, as well as support your compliance reporting needs. By partnering with us, organisations can fulfil their Duty of Care responsibilities, while empowering business resilience, continuity, and sustainability.

Founded in 1985, the International SOS Group, headquartered in London & Singapore, is trusted by 9,500 organisations, including the majority of the Fortune Global 500 as well as mid-size enterprises, governments, educational institutions, and NGOs. 13,000 multi-cultural security, medical, logistics and digital experts stand by you to provide support & assistance from over 1,000 locations in 90 countries, 24/7, 365 days.