The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) yesterday screened 200 people at Gbagede community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State to commemorate World Malaria Day.

The Chairperson of the ACPN, Mrs Munirat Bello, said the day was set aside to sensitise communities and everyone about malaria.

She said malaria is one of the leading causes of death in pregnant women and children below the age of five.

Bello pointed out that community pharmacists have a vital role to play in the counselling, control and prevention of malaria because it is a primary healthcare disease.

She advised people to sleep in long-lasting insecticidal nets, prevent water-logged holes and keep the environment clean at all times.

She pointed out that the rainy season is usually a season where mosquitoes breed more while a spike in malaria fever occurs frequently.

Bello warned people against using anti-malaria drugs every time they come down with fever, while emphasising that testing is key in the treatment of the disease.

She also advised people to exercise caution when using alternative medicines, saying herbs must be evidence-based.

Bello praised the government for the provision of malaria vaccines for children below six months, while also appealing for wider coverage of the vaccines across all communities.

Also speaking, the Director of Pharmaceutical Services, Kwara Ministry of Health, Mrs Risikat Lawal, described the theme of the Day: "Driven to End Malaria: Now We Can. Now We Must", as apt.

She emphasised the importance of mobilising and sensitising people in communities about malaria prevention.

The Onigbagede of Gbagede town, Oba AbdulHakeem Ishola, commended the ACPN for the humanitarian services rendered to his community.