From late August to early September, I was headed to Shandong Province, Yantai City, and Shan County to participate in a multilateral cooperation evaluation and monitoring meeting, eager to learn from elimination efforts on the frontlines in China.
The meeting at the Shandong Institute for Parasitic Disease Prevention and Control brought together experts from China and Tanzania. After the welcoming remarks, we received presentations on Shandong's malaria epidemiology and vector control strategies. It was impressive to see how case numbers have declined thanks to strengthened surveillance and targeted interventions.
Professor Yeromin Mlacha, from the Ifakara Health Institute in Tanzania, added a lively African lens, sparking debate comparing regional adaptations. Eager to pick seasoned brains, I joined the exchange of experience and knowledge on infectious disease control and surveillance. Success stories painted how case numbers declined through strengthened surveillance and targeted interventions..
In the discussion session, I was able to engage with Chinese and Tanzanian colleagues on challenges around detecting imported malaria cases. Based on Hong Kong's surveillance and control lessons, I shared some examples of screening approaches. I was glad my perspectives could complement those gained from years of domestic program implementation.
In the medical entomology laboratory tour that followed, I was struck by the robust malaria diagnostics and insectary facilities. Behind glistening microscopes, scientists meticulously studied vector specimens. Their genetic mosquito mapping project to find transmission hotspots got my imagination buzzing, notebooks filling with questions and ideas to contemplate. Discussing research projects with scientists revealed ongoing efforts to develop new tools. Seeing first-hand how research informed practice reinforced my belief in collaborative solutions. Exchanging personal experiences battling this disease in our countries kept us all energized in our common mission. Fostering connections like these across borders and disciplines is key to eventually overcoming malaria.
This evaluation journey strengthened my appreciation for China's contribution in the global malaria fight. Though challenges remain, the dedication and innovations happening here energized me in my studies. I am grateful to Professor Mlacha for the guidance he provided Shandong officials, and to Professor Wang for generously sharing NIPD's invaluable expertise in modeling and case investigations. Collaborations like this shape the next generation of malaria scientists and programs worldwide. The progress we've made together gives me hope that future generations may not have to struggle with this preventable disease.
This experience in Shandong reinforced for me the value of bringing diverse perspectives together to stimulate new ideas and push the malaria agenda forward. I feel honored to have contributed, however small, and am inspired to continue working with all partners toward our shared vision of a malaria-free future. Experience and knowledge are humanity's most powerful tools for change.
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Eden Tang
Placement Site: China CDC