UNICEF warns about Sierra Leone malaria emergency

A lack of bed nets could cause a malaria emergency in Sierra Leone, it has been claimed.

UNICEF commented that there is set to be a rise in cases due to these shortfalls.

The group has stated that deaths from the disease among children under five have increased significantly during the last four months.

A joint statement by UNICEF and the World Health Organisation said: "This current trend of one in five children in Sierra Leone dying before the age of five due to easily preventable diseases is unacceptable, and calls for immediate and concerted action."

The groups are calling for bed nets and medication to be delivered to the country in order to address the emergency.

Earlier this week, Andy Murray joined the fight against malaria.

The tennis star is to sell some of his old shirts online later this month to raise money for the Malaria No More charity.

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