Bhutan is on the verge of a major public health achievement—WHO certification of malaria elimination. Owing to decades of strong political leadership, the dedication of frontline health workers, a solid surveillance system, early detection and timely treatment, integrated vector control, and close cross-border cooperation, Bhutan has recorded zero indigenous malaria cases for three consecutive years (2022–2025).
Following Bhutan's formal application for certification, an independent WHO Certification Mission is in the country from 23 August to 1 September 2026 to verify this achievement.
The mission is reviewing the country's surveillance and response systems, laboratory and case-management capacity, vector control measures, policies, documentation, and field-level implementation—along with Bhutan's readiness to prevent malaria from returning.
This is a defining moment in Bhutan's public health journey, marking the result of decades of hard work by health workers, communities, leaders, and partners across the country.
The mission will provide recommendations to WHO on Bhutan's eligibility for malaria elimination certification while also identifying areas that need strengthening to protect this achievement.
To celebrate this historic milestone, the Ministry of Health has launched the National Strategic Plan for Prevention of Re-establishment of Malaria (2026–2030), along with the Bhutan Malaria Elimination Report 2026—reaffirming its commitment to staying malaria-free for generations to come.
From eliminating malaria to keeping it out—Bhutan's next chapter is about vigilance and sustained commitment. A malaria-free Bhutan isn't the end of the journey. It's a promise to future generations.