Staff Reporter.
Limpopo MEC for Health Phophi Ramathuba has urged residents of the province to remain alert amid a surge in malaria cases.
The province has recorded 406 malaria cases and two deaths.
“Even though is still lower than last financial year, it still remains a cause for concern because it’s a clear indication that we have not yet achieved our ambition of zero malaria infection,” said the provincial health department in a statement.
“The department has dispatched the malaria control team on a door-to-door campaign to test and treat as well as distributing flyers on malaria to step up the fight against malaria. Vhembe and Mopani District are the most affected districts when it comes to malaria cases with Sekhukhune District following suit to be a malaria hot spot.”
In the Vhembe District, a total of 195 cases and 1 death have been recorded, followed by 184 cases in the Mopani district and 1 death, 10 cases in the Waterberg district, 10 cases in the Capricorn district, and 6 cases in the Sekhukhune district.
“These deaths are because of a delay in patients seeking healthcare, presenting with complicated symptoms,” the department added.
Ramathuba pointed out that the province recorded a total of 3 461 malaria cases and 19 deaths in the 2020/2021 financial year.
“As we approach the rainy season, we continue to urge all malaria prone communities to stay vigilant and report all malaria-related case to the nearest clinic.
“Whilst the incidence of malaria has declined to lower levels, malaria remains a fatal disease if remained undiagnosed and untreated,” Ramathuba said.
Communities may find solace in a campaign where malaria control teams move from door to door to test and treat the disease, as well as distribute flyers.