World Malaria Day – Zero Malaria Starts with ME
World Malaria Day is almost here on 25 April 2021. It has been in place since 2007. World Malaria Day is an occasion to highlight the need for continued investment and sustained political commitment for malaria prevention and control. “On World Malaria Day malaria-free countries can learn about the devastating consequences of the disease and new donors can join a global partnership against malaria. Research and academia institutions to flag their scientific advances and countries in affected regions can learn from each other’s experiences and back each other efforts” – gov.za
In 2021 we don’t only highlight the importance of the ongoing fight against malaria, but the success the world has had in bringing down cases and helping prevent a lot more deaths than was possible a decade ago. It isn’t only due to governments and corporations doing their part, but also the general public. We share the information and we tell our friends to get vaccinated when they travel and always remind ourselves to take care.
You can even direct them to the Mediwell Travel Clinic for vaccinations, medications and recommendations.
What is Malaria?
Malaria is caused by Plasmodium parasites. The parasites are spread to people through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes, called malaria vectors. This is mostly to feed their larvae when they hatch and is how the parasite is transmitted to humans. There are 5 parasite species that cause malaria in humans, and 2 of these species – P. falciparum and P. vivax – pose the greatest threat.
In 2018, in the WHO Africa region, an estimated 99.7% of cases were as a result of the P. falciparum Parasite. In South Africa malaria is found in Limpopo, Mpumalanga and the north-eastern part of KwaZulu-Natal. The peak period is between September and May.
WHO’S AT RISK?
Some population groups are at considerably higher risk of contracting malaria, and developing severe disease, than others. These include:
- Infants
- Children under 5 years of age,
- Pregnant women
- Patients with HIV/AIDS
- Non-immune migrants
- Mobile populations
- Travellers
National malaria control programmes need to take special measures to protect these population groups from malaria infection, taking into consideration their specific circumstances.
THE NUMBERS
According to the latest World malaria report, released on 30 November 2020, there were 229 million cases of malaria in 2019 compared to 228 million cases in 2018. The estimated number of malaria deaths stood at 409 000 in 2019, compared with 411 000 deaths in 2018.
The WHO African Region continues to carry a disproportionately high share of the global malaria burden. In 2019, the region was home to 94% of all malaria cases and deaths. – WHO
PREVENTION
- Insecticide-treated mosquito nets (ITN)
- indoor residual spraying (IRS)
- Antimalarial Drugs
There are various other medicines for specific populations but you will need to speak to your medical doctor for recommendations and dosage.
MEDIWELL TRAVEL CLINIC
Mediwell Medical and Dental Centre is the best travel clinic Fourways has to offer because it is run by highly experienced, trusted and caring healthcare professionals who are able to assist you with any of your needs.
- Malaria
- Travel Health Assessments and advice on your planned travel to specific destinations.
- Medicals required for cross-border work permits or visas
- General travel health advice for traveling by land, air or sea,
- Travel medicine for pregnancy or chronic medical conditions.
- Travel vaccinations required by the countries you are visiting.
- Vaccinations Assessments and recommendations in relation to your personal health circumstances.
- Cross-border medicals.
Travel immunizations and vaccines are given as required by the destination countries. Please ensure you see your doctor 4-6 weeks before international travel to check which travel immunizations or vaccines are required. At Mediwell Medical and Dental Centre we have all the latest information on health risks, across the world, at our fingertips. We also have the expertise in travel medicine.
ON 25 April, the road to zero malaria cases starts with you and me. Share the information to your friends and family, donate to underserved communities and make sure you’re vaccinated before you travel.
Book your spot with the Travel Clinic at Mediwell Medical & Dental Centre Dainfern by phone, e-mail or WhatsApp and make sure you book 4-6 weeks in advance.
Zero Malaria Starts with YOU
