Dear USET/USET SPF Family,
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as of June 26, 2023, there have been four cases of malaria in Florida and one case in Texas. United States see cases of malaria every year from international travelers, however, for the first time in 20 years locally acquired malaria cases are occurring. Surveillance efforts are ongoing and mosquito control measures have been implemented for additional prevention of malaria transmission. The risk of contracting malaria is extremely low, but USET member Tribal Nations in areas where local transmission has occurred should practice caution when outdoors.
What is Malaria?
The disease known as malaria is caused by a parasite called Plasmodium. This parasite lives in the blood and is transmitted through the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito. Malaria is responsible for over 240 million infections a year worldwide with 95 percent of cases taking place in Sub-Saharan Africa. Malaria can cause fever, chills, headache, muscle aches/pains, vomiting, and nausea and is potentially fatal, especially to immunocompromised individuals, children, and elders.
Recommendations
- Use EPA registered insect repellents, containing DEET, picaridin, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus, etc. and follow product instructions.
- Wear long sleeves and long pants, if possible, to prevent mosquito bites.
- Close windows and doors at night and be cautious around still bodies of water.
- If travelling to another country, ask your doctor about medicines that prevent the transmission of malaria.
- Treat your yard to remove unwanted mosquitos if needed.
- Remove standing water where mosquitos lay eggs.
- Please follow the links below for more recommendations for clinicians, hospitals and laboratories, and public health officials.
Resources
Malaria Identified in the United States and Recommendations
Locally Acquired Malaria in Texas
CDC: General Malaria Information
Mosquito Control at Home
Florida Surveillance of Mosquito-borne Diseases
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