The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently issued a warning regarding locally acquired cases of malaria in both Florida and Texas. It has been 20 years since the last case of malaria was caught locally in the United States.
Malaria symptoms typically include fever, chills, headache, and fatigue. Symptoms often start between 10 days and a month after infection. However, it’s possible to get sick as late as a year after the initial infection.
How Malaria Spreads
Americans typically catch malaria while traveling in areas where the disease is more common. Malaria is spread by female anopheline mosquitoes. Although these mosquitoes can be found in the US, malaria is still rare here. Worldwide, however, there are 240 million cases annually.
Warmer temperatures and stagnant water create more habitat for mosquitoes, which in turn increases the rate of bites. In addition to being spread through mosquitoes, malaria can also be contracted via blood transfusions, organ transplants, and from mother to fetus. Unsafe needle-sharing practices can also cause malaria to spread.
Americans typically catch malaria while traveling in areas where the disease is more common. Malaria is spread by female anopheline mosquitoes. Although these mosquitoes can be found in the US, malaria is still rare here. Worldwide, however, there are 240 million cases annually.
Despite these new cases, the CDC states that the risk of getting malaria in the US is extremely low.
Preventing Mosquito Bites
Protective clothing such as long sleeves and pants combined with insect repellant use can help protect against mosquito bites. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Keeping gutters clear, covering trash containers, and changing the water in pet dishes regularly can help prevent new mosquitos.
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