Spike in malaria cases prompts call for vigilance

The Gauteng department of health has raised the alarm over a sharp spike in malaria cases and related deaths across the province, urging residents to remain vigilant and seek early treatment.

- Oratile Mashilo

According to the department, malaria, a potentially life-threatening disease transmitted through the bite of a mosquito, continues to pose a serious public health risk.

Recent surveillance data shows a concerning upward trend.

Between January and December last year, Gauteng recorded 666 malaria cases and seven deaths.

However, in the first three months this year, the province has already reported 414 confirmed cases and 11 deaths.

This marks a significant increase compared with the same period last year, when 230 cases and one death were recorded.