Malaria Claims 18 Lives in Zimbabwe; Cases Rise to 12,936
As Zimbabwe grapples with the persistent threat of malaria, the toll has reached a concerning milestone this year, with eighteen individuals tragically losing their lives to the disease. The cumulative number of reported cases has surged to 12,936, highlighting the urgent need for heightened vigilance and preventive measures.
Malaria, a perilous illness caused by parasites transmitted through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes, remains a significant health concern in the region. Despite being preventable and treatable, it continues to claim lives and affect communities.
Recognizing the severity of malaria, health authorities emphasize the importance of understanding its signs and symptoms. Severe malaria manifests through indicators such as jaundice in white palms, indicative of anemia, exceptionally high body temperatures, profound weakness (rendering individuals unable to sit, experiencing minimal urine output or none at all, and enduring severe vomiting).
The latest Disease Surveillance Report from the Ministry of Health sheds light on the distribution of malaria cases, with Mashonaland East and Mashonaland Central provinces bearing the brunt of the outbreak. This geographical concentration underscores the need for targeted interventions and resource allocation to combat the spread of the disease effectively.
Efforts to control malaria encompass a multifaceted approach, including mosquito control measures, prompt diagnosis, and appropriate treatment. Additionally, raising awareness within communities about preventive measures such as the use of insecticide-treated bed nets and seeking medical attention upon experiencing symptoms is crucial in mitigating the impact of malaria.
As the nation grapples with this health challenge, collaboration between government agencies, healthcare providers, and communities is paramount to implement comprehensive strategies that safeguard public health and reduce the burden of malaria-related morbidity and mortality.
“The disease surveillance report for the week ending 31 March 2024 shows that 1 979 malaria cases and three deaths were reported during the week. Of those, 175 of the reported cases were from under five years of age. “The deaths were reported from Nyanga District (1) in Manicaland, Masvingo and Harare and provinces,” read the report.
“The provinces that reported the highest number of cases were Mashonaland Central Province (1 157) and Mashonaland East Province (301). The cumulative figures for malaria cases are 12,936 and 18 deaths.”
ALSO READ: Scammers Alert: Fake Rent-to-Buy Car Scheme Hits Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe relies on indoor residual spraying (IRS) as its primary strategy for malaria control, a measure that has proven effective in safeguarding an average of 3.3 million people annually from malaria. Additionally, the distribution of over seven million nets across the country between 2010 and 2021 has contributed significantly to malaria prevention efforts.
However, despite these interventions, the World Health Organization’s African Region continues to bear the brunt of the malaria burden. In 2021 alone, this region accounted for approximately 95 percent of all malaria cases (234 million) and 96 percent of malaria-related deaths (593,000).
Tragically, nearly 80 percent of these malaria fatalities in the African Region occurred among children under five years old, underscoring the vulnerability of this age group to the disease.
Looking ahead, Zimbabwe is set to observe World Malaria Day on April 25, joining the global community in commemorating this important event under the theme: “Accelerating the fight against malaria for a more equitable world.” This annual observance serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts and collective responsibility required to combat malaria effectively and create a healthier, more equitable world for all.
