Malaria cases sprut alarms health dept

Sindh is grappling with a sharp rise in malaria cases this year, with more than 20,000 infections reported from January 1 to April 16, according to the Sindh Health Department.

The outbreak includes the detection of a cerebral malaria case - a rare but potentially fatal form of the disease.

Karachi has reported 201 cases, while Hyderabad and Larkana are also witnessing significantly higher numbers.

Health officials are urging citizens to take preventive measures as the threat escalates.

In Karachi, 201 malaria cases have been reported, with the highest number being 77 in District South, followed by 69 in Malir, 30 in West, 18 in Korangi, five in East, and two in Central.

Meanwhile, the Hyderabad Division has reported over 7,000 cases, 6,499 in Larkana, 1,835 in Sukkur, over 1,000 in Mirpurkhas division, and 2,422 cases in Shaheed Benazirabad division. A patient in Hyderabad was even hospitalised after contracting cerebral malaria.

Health experts warn that cerebral malaria is a severe condition in which the parasite reaches the brain through the bloodstream, affecting its blood vessels. It can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. They stress the importance of using mosquito nets, maintaining cleanliness, and applying mosquito repellent sprays to prevent malaria. Citizens are advised to seek immediate medical attention if they experience fever or other malaria symptoms.

To prevent mosquito breeding, people are urged to eliminate standing water around their homes and cover water storage containers, including overhead tanks.

Malaria is a significant health concern in Karachi, particularly during and after the monsoon season when stagnant water becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes. To prevent malaria, it is essential to take steps to avoid mosquito bites. Applying insect repellents that contain DEET, picaridin, or lemon eucalyptus oil on exposed skin can be very effective. Additionally, wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants, preferably in light colours, helps reduce the chances of being bitten. Since the mosquitoes that transmit malaria (Anopheles mosquitoes) are most active during dusk and dawn, it's best to stay indoors during these hours when possible.

Protecting home environment is equally important. Using mosquito nets while sleeping, especially in non-air-conditioned rooms, is a simple but powerful preventive measure. Installing fine mesh screens on windows and doors can help keep mosquitoes out of the house. Electric mosquito vaporisers or mosquito coils can also be used indoors, particularly at night. Regularly spraying insecticide in corners, behind curtains, and under furniture can further reduce mosquito presence inside the house.

Another critical step is eliminating mosquito breeding sites around the home. Plant pots, buckets, and old tyres that hold standing water must be emptied regularly. Water storage tanks should be properly sealed, and clogged drains should be cleaned out. Water in air coolers, flower vases, and pet bowls should also be changed frequently to prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs.

If symptoms such as fever, chills, vomiting, or body aches are experienced, it is important to seek immediate medical attention and get tested for malaria. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent serious complications.