Four municipalities in South Africa’s (SA) Mpumalanga province have recorded a sharp rise in malaria cases, with more than 619 infections and at least five deaths reported between April and November this year.

The provincial Department of Health has been visiting affected communities to raise awareness as the region marks Southern African Development Community Malaria Day.

Director for Communicable Diseases, Mandla Zwane, has urged residents to take extra precautions, especially as the festive season approaches and many people travel to areas where malaria is common.

“We are now approaching the festive season, and we know very well that the community will be travelling to different areas, including areas known to have malaria,” Zwane said. “We are also requesting that when they go, they get prophylaxis treatment for malaria at our local health facilities. They should take the tablet two days before they travel, continue taking it while they are in that area, and finish the full course even after they return. That treatment will help reduce the chances of getting malaria.”

Health officials have encouraged communities to seek early medical attention if they experience symptoms such as fever, chills or headaches.

–ChannelAfrica–