The steadily increasing number of malaria infections in 2019, now nearly twice last year’s total for the same period, has local and international agencies concerned. A WHO report attributes the rise to an undersupply of treated mosquito nets, low population immunity (‘especially for the people living in the mountains where malaria transmission is usually very low’), changes in climate conditions ‘and vector ecological and behavioural changes (increased vector density and feeding habits – biting both indoors and outdoors as well as higher vector aggressiveness)’. Up to week 21 of 2019, there have been in excess of three million ‘clinical malaria cases, including 1,273 malaria-related deaths’ and 40 of the 46 health districts are reporting epidemics. Read more
Advice for travellers
Sub-Saharan Africa presents a significant malaria risk for travellers so they should discuss their itinerary and the need for anti-malaria medication with a medical practitioner. For details call 1300 360 164. Read more about malaria.
Before you travel, call Travelvax Australia’s telephone advisory service on 1300 360 164 (toll-free from landlines) for country-specific advice and information. You can also make an appointment at your nearest Travelvax clinic to obtain vaccinations, medication to prevent or treat illness, and accessories for your journey.