Malaria healthcare service utilization before, during, and 1 year into the COVID-19 pandemic in 20 sub-Saharan African countries using Generalized Estimating Equation

This study demonstrates a significant decline in malaria healthcare service utilization 1 year into the COVID-19 pandemic across 20 sub-Saharan African countries. Individuals were markedly less likely to be tested, visit healthcare providers, or receive treatment for malaria symptoms compared to pre-pandemic levels. These findings emphasize the urgent need for resilient health systems and sustained malaria services during global health emergencies to prevent setbacks in malaria control and elimination efforts.