Travellers to malaria-endemic areas are urged to take necessary preventive measures seriously.
11 people died in Gauteng in the first quarter of this year, from some 414 confirmed malaria cases.
The National Institute of Communicable Diseases (NICD) said in a statement, this week, recent heavy rains and flooding across the region, increased the risk of the disease in endemic provinces in South Africa.
About 300 cases were recorded in January alone.
“In South Africa, malaria transmission is mainly confined to the low-altitude areas of KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, and Mpumalanga, where malaria-transmitting mosquitoes occur and environmental conditions support ongoing transmission. Provinces such as Gauteng are not considered malaria-endemic, but imported malaria cases are frequently identified, particularly among travellers returning from affected areas within South Africa and elsewhere” said the Institute.
Travellers can use appropriate chemoprophylaxis for moderate- to high-risk destinations.
Symptoms include fever, chills, headache, body aches, or fatigue after recent travel.
“Seek medical attention immediately and request a malaria test. This applies even to those who have taken preventive medication, as no prophylactic is 100% effective. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment save lives.”
Picture: Supplied