The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is issuing an alert regarding the increasing prevalence of malaria within the United States. Over the past two months, a total of five instances of this illness have been officially documented.
The CDC issued a warning on June 26 regarding five cases of malaria, a disease typically contracted abroad by most Americans. However, these particular cases were contracted within the United States, with four cases reported in Florida and one in Texas. This indicates a potential increase in the number of people who could be at risk.
Malaria is caused by a parasite that enters the bloodstream through the bite of an infected mosquito. Symptoms of the disease vary but commonly include fever, chills, headaches, nausea, and vomiting. These symptoms typically manifest after at least a week, sometimes even up to a month. If left untreated, malaria can lead to severe organ failure, which can be fatal. Even when not fatal, individuals can experience recurring episodes of the disease throughout their lives. Pregnant women and their unborn babies are particularly vulnerable to the dangers posed by malaria.
US health alert over malaria cases in Florida and Texas https://t.co/WjVOL5uTEn
— Gail G. Abney (@GailGAbney) June 27, 2023
The four malaria cases in Florida are concentrated within a specific geographic region, prompting local public health authorities to closely monitor the situation and implement measures to control the mosquito population. In light of these developments, the CDC is recommending healthcare providers to be vigilant and consider malaria as a potential diagnosis for patients presenting with unexplained fevers or symptoms consistent with the disease. Moreover, the CDC emphasizes the importance of treating malaria symptoms as a medical emergency and urges individuals experiencing such symptoms to seek immediate medical attention.
In order to lower the chances of contracting malaria, it is essential to take measures to minimize mosquito bites. If there are mosquitoes in the vicinity, it is advisable to apply insect repellent. Eliminating stagnant water from your property is crucial, as mosquitoes lay their eggs in such environments. Even small puddles, including rainwater accumulated on a loosely covered boat, can rapidly become breeding grounds for these insects. To safeguard your home, utilizing window screens is recommended. Additionally, wearing loose and light-colored clothing can help prevent mosquitoes from coming into contact with your skin.
