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Limpopo Records Three Malaria Deaths in 2024 with over 500 cases: Amid Ongoing Efforts to Combat the Disease

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Limpopo province has recorded three malaria-related deaths between April last year and January this year, with over 500 malaria cases reported, according to the provincial Department of Health.

Picture: Mayo Clinic

Although the death toll represents a decrease compared to previous years, provincial health spokesperson Neil Shikwambana stressed that every death is a tragedy, and the Department remains committed to reducing these numbers. He said, “The Department remains focused on reducing these numbers and improving malaria control efforts.”

Malaria is caused by the plasmodium parasite, transmitted through infected mosquitoes. Symptoms typically include fever, chills, headache, nausea, and body aches, and can appear 10-15 days after a mosquito bite. The Department of Health has intensified its malaria control efforts, including an indoor residual spraying program to reduce mosquito populations.

Shikwambana highlighted the importance of community participation in the program, noting that 355 seasonal spray workers will be employed in the 2024-2025 financial year to spray over 1.16 million homes. He also announced plans to increase the number of spray workers to 400 in the 2025-2026 financial year to expand coverage, especially in areas most vulnerable to outbreaks.

While acknowledging the vital role of rainfall for agriculture, Shikwambana warned that the rain also creates breeding grounds for mosquitoes, increasing the risk of malaria transmission. He urged the public to stay vigilant and cooperate with malaria control efforts, such as allowing spraying in homes and taking preventive measures like using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and sleeping under mosquito nets.

For those traveling to malaria-endemic areas, Shikwambana emphasized the importance of taking prophylactic medication before departure to reduce the risk of infection. He also urged travelers who feel unwell upon returning from such areas to seek medical attention immediately and inform healthcare providers of their travel history for proper treatment.

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