By ​Thuso Montwedi
 
A steady rise in Malaria cases within the province of Gauteng has marked an unusual development for an area typically considered low risk for the disease. In 2023 alone, 1,339 Malaria cases and 16 deaths were reported. 
While these figures align with the typical trends in recent years, the increase in fatalities has brought an urgent reminder of the risks posed by Malaria even in non-endemic regions. 
"Malaria is a preventable disease as such we are concerned about the recorded increase in deaths," Tebogo Matjokotja, the Deputy Director for Communicable Disease Prevention and Control at Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) stated. "Many of these fatalities are due to patients presenting too late at health facilities or failing to take prophylactic medication before traveling to high-risk areas." She mentioned. 
Most of the cases reported in Gauteng have been among immigrants from neighbouring Southern African countries, particularly Mozambique, where Malaria is widespread. In response, the department has collaborated with Médecins Sans Frontières, also known as Doctors Without Borders, to make educational materials accessible in Portuguese. 
This initiative aims to address the language barrier and raise awareness of Malaria symptoms, preventative steps, and the importance of timely treatment. The department's Health Promotion Team has also been working in high-density communities, such as townships, informal settlements and hostels, educating residents on how to protect themselves against Malaria, identify early symptoms, and seek treatment. These efforts are designed to make sure that the public understands Malaria risks and the importance of early action, particularly during travel to endemic areas.
To further curb Malaria's spread, the Department is encouraging residents to take advantage of free preventive treatments available at public health facilities. Doxycycline, a widely recommended prophylactic for those aged eight and above, is available at no cost. 
Travelers are advised to begin taking the medication a day before visiting an endemic area, continue with daily doses during their stay, and keep taking it for four weeks after returning home. For those seeking other options, atovaquone-proguanil is available at private clinics and pharmacies, and it's suitable for children weighing over 5kg as well as adults. 
The public is  also urged to take protective measures such as applying mosquito repellents, using bed nets, wearing long sleeves in the evening, and avoiding outdoor activities after sunset can significantly reduce the risk of Malaria.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted the importance of addressing Malaria as a serious public health threat, especially in regions like Southern Africa. It is primarily transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes, thrives in warm and humid climates, and in 2022, approximately 95% of global Malaria cases were reported in Africa, with children under five years particularly at risk.
The GDoH is urging residents to stay vigilant and take all possible precautions. Malaria is no longer confined to certain areas, it is important to seek immediate medical attention if you experience the common symptoms such as fever and chills, headaches, muscles aches and fatigue, sweating, nausea, and vomiting. As Malaria cases continue to emerge in unexpected areas, prevention and awareness are everyone's responsibility.