Cases of locally acquired malaria have increased in the United States, with at least seven reported in the past two months. This marks the first local transmission of the disease in 20 years.
Last month, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a public health alert urging doctors, public health authorities and the public to remain vigilant about the worrisome risk of malaria.
Of the seven reported cases, six were detected in Sarasota County, Florida, and the remainder were detected in Cameron County, Texas. Of particular concern is that none of the patients had traveled overseas before becoming infected with the parasite, raising concerns about the potential for further transmission within the local community.
As early as 1951, the United States declared malaria eliminated as a major national public health problem. However, the parasite re-emerges every year, and the country records about 2,000 malaria cases each year. According to reports, the cases mainly involve individuals returning to the country after traveling abroad. usa today.
In 2021, a combined 156 malaria cases were reported in Florida and Texas, all attributed to people who had recently traveled abroad.
Rhoel Dinglasan, Professor of Infectious Diseases, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine Passed sarasota herald tribune Locally acquired cases of malaria are relatively rare. The last recorded outbreak of such cases occurred in 2003, when eight such cases were recorded in Palm Beach County.
Despite limited transmission within the United States, the recent increase in malaria cases reminds us that while many countries have eradicated the disease, continued vigilance and adherence to preventive measures is critical.
Malaria is a disease transmitted through the bite of an infected female Anopheles mosquito. Symptoms of malaria, such as chills, fever, headache, nausea, body aches, and diarrhea, are often mistaken for the flu, the common cold, or even COVID-19.
The most common symptoms of malaria, including fever, chills, headache, muscle aches and fatigue, usually appear within 7 to 30 days of infection. If left untreated, the disease may progress to more serious symptoms such as disturbance of consciousness, difficulty breathing, convulsions, abnormal bleeding and even death.
The CDC recommends taking “mosquito prevention measures” when you’re outside. Suggested malaria prevention measures include: using EPA-approved repellents on skin and clothing, wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants, staying in well-screened areas, and using insecticide-treated nets when camping.
Travelers, especially those traveling to sub-Saharan Africa, the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, or tropical South and Central America, are advised to consult a healthcare professional about vaccines to prevent the disease and prescription antimalarial drugs.
Published by Medicaldaily.com