After 5 circumstances of malaria had been confirmed within the U.S. for the primary time in 20 years, may the intense and probably deadly illness from mosquitoes come north to New England?
The CDC just lately reported one case of malaria in Texas and 4 circumstances within the Sarasota, Fla., space that weren’t linked to journey. Officials imagine the U.S. circumstances had been from the chunk of an contaminated native mosquito.
The most up-to-date comparable cluster was reported in Florida 20 years in the past.
On Wednesday, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health careworn that there was no proof of malaria transmission elsewhere within the U.S., and none within the Bay State.
“However, mosquito bites in Massachusetts can transmit other infections, such as West Nile virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis,” the state Department of Public Health stated in an announcement.
“People should take steps to avoid being bitten, such as reducing exposed skin by wearing long sleeves, long pants, and socks and using an EPA-approved insect repellent when outdoors,” DPH added. The company “also encourages people to empty any standing water that may have accumulated anywhere around their homes and to repair window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out.”
Malaria is a standard illness in lots of components of the world, notably in components of Asia, Africa, and Latin America. It’s a number one reason for loss of life and illness globally, however uncommon within the U.S.
Malaria is unfold by sure species of mosquitoes, causes fever and different signs, could be extreme, and is recognized by a blood take a look at. Most circumstances within the U.S. are in individuals getting back from endemic areas.
Massachusetts has a mosquito surveillance program to alert the general public of any dangers, which has included West Nile virus and EEE in current summers and early falls. Mosquito testing began on June 12 this yr.
For updates on mosquito testing all through the season, go to the Massachusetts Arbovirus Update on-line at www.mass.gov/info-details/massachusetts-arbovirus-update.
Source: www.bostonherald.com”