The MEC for health, Mr Gillion Mashego would like to advise people about an increased risk of contracting malaria at this time of the year.

The province is currently experiencing a surge in reported malaria cases in the Ehlanzeni District, more particularly in the Bushbuckridge, Nkomazi and Mbombela sub-districts.

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The rise in the number of cases is due to higher rainfall and the flow of greater volumes of people after the holidays from malaria-endemic areas.

The rainfall and humidity are favourable conditions for breeding of mosquito parasites.

“We therefore urge all people who are coming back from malaria-endemic areas following their holidays to look out for symptoms, as early diagnosis can prevent death from the deadly disease. This disease is curable and preventable,” said Mashego.

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He further said that malaria is often incorrectly diagnosed as the flu, so one needs to be on the lookout for flu-like symptoms upon their return,

“If you don’t treat malaria, it can quickly become life-threatening by disrupting the blood supply for vital organs. It is vital that if you experience any of the symptoms you need to see the local health facility or your doctor for diagnosis and treatment,” he said.

The symptoms include:
• Fever
• Flu-like illness (fever, chills, sweating and body pains)
• Headache
• Extreme tiredness
• Nausea and vomiting.