The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared that Algeria and Argentina are now free of malaria.

This means that there has not been a single case of anyone catching the disease in either country over the past three years.

The WHO’s declaration is good news in the face of concern that malaria may be making a resurgence as according to the most recent annual figures, global malaria cases are no longer falling.

Algeria is the second country Africa to be officially recognised as malaria-free, after Mauritius, which was certified in 1973, the WHO says.

It puts the success down to work “ensuring no-one was left behind in getting the services they needed to prevent, detect and cure the disease”.

“Algeria and Argentina have eliminated malaria thanks to the unwavering commitment and perseverance of the people and leaders of both countries,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom, WHO Director-General, said.

“Their success serves as a model for other countries working to end this disease once and for all.”