Humanitarian emergencies case study: Mozambique, Adding vector control to disaster response: 3 reasons why from Cyclone Idai

Climate change and global health are inextricably linked. As the likelihood of severe weather events increases, so does the risk for vector-borne disease outbreaks like malaria. In March 2019, central Mozambique was caught in one of the worst cyclones recorded in the Southern Hemisphere. Cyclone Idai made landfall in the city of Beira, bringing severe rains and floods that swept away everything—homes, belongings, and of course, malaria commodities such as insecticide treated nets. The majority of local health centers were damaged or destroyed, medical supplies were lost, and supply chains were cut off in areas with high malaria burden. In total, the Cyclone Idai affected nearly 2 million people. Massive flooding from severe rains created an inland sea that stretched for 100 kilometers and was visible from space. Whole communities survived by climbing trees while houses were destroyed, and all belongings were swept away by flood waters—including malaria commodities and long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs). Critically, heavy flooding affected some of the highest malaria burden districts. As climate emergencies like Idai grow more common, response protocols must account for the risk posed by malaria and other vector-borne diseases following natural disasters. It is essential that local governments and the nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) that support them are equipped with the resources and training to launch rapid responses that prevent malaria outbreaks.