Malaria: More awareness needed – West Rand Health Dept

Communities around the world recently raised awareness about malaria, and the West Rand Health Department also wants their communities to be safe.

In a statement from London Sebiloane from the West Rand District Health Services he said April 25 marked World Malaria Day and the need for continued awareness and commitment to prevent and regulate malaria across the world.

Malaria season is between April and October, but in South Africa and more specifically Gauteng malaria cases are reported throughout the year.

Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by parasites that are transmitted to humans through the bite of infected female mosquitoes, and can lead to death within 24 hours.”

Symptoms include fever, headache, general body aches and pains, general body weakness, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhoea and influenza.

Sebiloane said many of these symptoms are similar to those of Covid-19. They urge individuals who have recently been to malaria-endemic areas such as Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Malawi, the Democratic Republic of Congo as well as Limpopo and Mpumalanga to visit their doctor or nearest clinic if they start showing symptoms.

“Most patients with malaria tend to present themselves to health facilities very late with already severe disease complications.”

Although the Gauteng province is not a malaria-endemic area, health facilities continue to tend to an average of between 2 000 and 3 000 cases each year. Malaria-related fatalities are between 20 and 30 a year.

Each person travelling to malaria-endemic areas should take along with them the recommended preventative malaria medications (chemoprophylaxis) which is available at any pharmacy and the four public health travel clinics.”

Regular use of mosquito repellents are also encouraged along with wearing long trousers and long-sleeve shirts, sleeping in air conditioned accommodation, a room with a fan, or in insecticide treated nettings.