It is amazing that such a small mosquito can be so deadly! Malaria is contracted by hundreds of millions of people in the world each year. Of this astronomical number, hundreds of thousands of people die from the disease.
Most Malaria cases are in the African region where around 2,000 children die every DAY! Malaria was eradicated in the US around 50 years ago. It is hard to believe that a deadly disease that can be prevented and treated is still killing so many elsewhere.
There are still reported Malaria cases in the US.
Around 1,500 people in the US contracted Malaria last year. Most cases were
contracted in Malaria stricken countries and found upon returning to the US. Precautions need to be taken when traveling to places such as sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. Antimalarial drugs can be prescribed by your doctor prior to your visit. Wear long clothing that have been soaked in or sprayed with permethrin. Sleep under a treated bed net at night. These are the best ways to prevent contracting Malaria while visiting places where Malaria is a threat.
I encourage our Central Mass residents to donate Malaria No More, very important cause in the fight against Malaria. You can visit malarianomore.org for more information or visit here to donate.
Dave Macchia, Mosquito Control Enthusiast