President Bush promotes U.S. role in anti-malaria program. President, first lady visiting five nations during six-day visit in Africa. The public mission of his travels is to improve health on an impoverished continent. The underlying one is to preserve his initiatives beyond his presidency and cement humanitarianism as a key part of his legacy. Bush launched a plan in 2005 to dramatically reduce malaria deaths in sub-Saharan Africa, the worst affected region in the world. More than 80 percent of malaria cases happen here. The disease kills at least 1 million infants and children under five every year. Bush's initiative has helped more than 25 million people. It is one of several global efforts that have combined to sharply reduce malaria deaths in African countries. Congress so far has put $425 million toward Bush's $1.2 billion, five-year program. Tanzania is one of 15 countries that benefit through the distribution of live-saving medicines, insecticide spraying and bed nets that keep mosquitoes away at night. Those bed nets, which cost about $10, have long-lasting insecticide. The Bushes are touring a plant where nets are woven, hung on hooks for inspection and bagged for shipment. Here's the link to the article.
SIDE NOTE: The RED CROSS club at UCSB is also having a Malaria prevention program call "Fight the Bite." We are fund-raising to help provide bed nets, each costing $10.00. There will be flyers coming out sometime this week and it would be great if everyone can help support our cause. More info later this week.
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