Malaria Confirmed Cases in Sarasota and Manatee Counties: The Florida Department of Health has reported a second incidence of malaria, per a news release. Consequently, an advisory for mosquito-borne illness has been issued for both Sarasota and Manatee counties.
Malaria Confirmed Cases in Sarasota and Manatee Counties:
According to the department, these are the first known cases of malaria in Florida since 2003. In May, health officials issued a warning after a patient “who spent extensive time outdoors” was diagnosed with malaria. This individual was treated, and they are currently doing well.
The health department reported that another individual was diagnosed with malaria after the warning was lifted. Malaria of the species P. vivax, which is less deadly than other species, was discovered in both patients.
Malaria is a parasitic disease transmitted to humans by infected mosquito bites, according to the World Health Organisation. Among the symptoms that can range from irritating to fatal are fever, headache, chills, exhaustion, difficulty breathing, and irregular bleeding.
The county’s mosquito control and the health department’s local partners are conducting aerial and ground spraying missions in the affected areas; the latter should reduce the likelihood of further transmission. The department suggests the following preventative measures for residents.
- To prevent mosquitoes, drain standing water.
- Remove standing water from your garbage can, gutters, buckets, pool covers, coolers, toys, and other outdoor and interior containers.
- Get rid of your worn-out tyres, drums, bottles, cans, plates, pans, broken appliances, and anything else you will not use.
- Once or twice per week, bird baths and pet water containers should be emptied and cleaned.
- Utilise impermeable tarps to protect your vehicle and boat from the rain.
- Swimming pools must always be well-maintained and chlorinated. Plastic swimming pools should be drained when not in use.
- To prevent insect bites, use insect repellents or cover up.
- Include socks, shoes, long pants and a long-sleeved blouse among your layers of clothing. Those who must labour in regions where mosquitoes flourish may require this protection.
- Apply mosquito repellent to exposed skin and garments.
- Always apply insect repellents as directed. Effective mosquito repellents include DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol, 2-undecanoate, and IR3535.
- Protect infants younger than two months from mosquito bites with mosquito netting.
- Screen Doors And Windows To Prevent Mosquitoes
- Restore all broken screens on your windows, entrances, porches, and patios.
What Are The Malaria Warning Symptoms?
Similar to the flu, malaria produces fever, chills, headache, muscle pains, and fatigue. Additionally, diarrhoea, vomiting, and nausea may occur.
Malaria can cause anaemia and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) as a result of the loss of red blood cells. According to the CDC, if treatment is delayed, the severity of the disease can lead to kidney failure, seizures, mental confusion, coma, and even mortality.
Is A Vaccine Available For Malaria?
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has strongly encouraged the administration of the RTS, S/AS01 malaria vaccine to all children in areas with intermediate to high P. falciparum malaria transmission beginning in October 2021. Malaria is especially dangerous to young children, but vaccination has significantly reduced mild and severe cases.
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