Malaria Cases Surge... What Are the Main Symptoms and Prevention Guidelines?

Goyang-si Reports 19 Malaria Cases as of June
Avoid Outdoor Activities After Sunset to Prevent Infection

As malaria spreads due to the recent hot and humid weather, Goyang City in Gyeonggi Province has issued an emergency alert and launched disinfection activities.

[Photo by Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency]

On the 4th, the Goyang City Public Health Center urged citizens to follow preventive measures as the number of malaria patients has recently surged. Malaria is a representative mosquito-borne infectious disease, occurring when mosquitoes that carry the malaria parasite bite a person, allowing the parasite to enter the body and destroy red blood cells.

In Korea, malaria appears mainly in areas near the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) from May to October, when mosquitoes are most active. In particular, Goyang City is a high-risk area where 30 to 40 malaria cases occur annually. Recently, due to the El Ni?o phenomenon causing a rapid rise in temperature, the population of malaria-carrying mosquitoes has increased. According to the city, the number of malaria patients reached as many as 19 last month.

Accordingly, the Goyang City Public Health Center is conducting disinfection work around areas where malaria patients have been reported, as well as mosquito habitats such as grasslands and small streams.

Symptoms of Malaria Infection Include Chills and Fever... How to Prevent It?

Malaria Infection Symptoms
Photo by YouTube 'Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency Apureujima TV'>

According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, symptoms such as ▲chills ▲fever ▲sweating may recur at 48-hour intervals if infected with malaria. In addition, symptoms similar to other infectious diseases like flu or enteritis, such as ▲headache ▲diarrhea ▲vomiting, may also occur. If suspicious symptoms appear, one should get diagnostic testing at a nearby public health center or medical institution.

To prevent malaria, it is advisable to avoid outdoor activities after sunset when mosquitoes are most active. If outdoor activities are necessary, wearing light-colored long clothing is recommended, and mosquito repellent must be used if outdoor activities continue for a long time. Additionally, thoroughly checking window screens and using mosquito nets can help prevent malaria infection.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.