We also worked with the Ministry of Health to treat severe COVID-19 patients in Bamako and supported the response to the pandemic across the country, while maintaining our focus on cancer care and pediatric services. In 2020, we expanded our work in oncology by facilitating early screening and diagnosis of cervical and breast cancer in the capital and providing treatment, including surgery and chemotherapy.
MSF continued to respond to epidemics in the country, such as outbreaks of Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever in Douentza, and measles in Timbuktu, Ansongo, and Douentza. In Timbuktu, we launched a large-scale measles vaccination campaign. The seasonal peak of malaria was particularly virulent in 2020, especially in northern Mali, due to heavy rains and delays in the implementation of prevention campaigns. We maintained our support for nutrition and pediatric services in Koutiala district and launched an emergency project in Timbuktu to assist with testing and treating people for malaria.