NewsDesk @bactiman63
The Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a nationwide malaria alert on Aug. 3 as the parasite was confirmed this year for the first time this year in mosquito vectors collected from malaria risk areas (Incheon, northern Gyeonggi, and Gangwon).
Accordingly, in order to reduce the risk of malaria infection, local governments in risky areas strengthen control measures such as operating mosquito traps in barns that serve as mosquito vectors and treating residual pesticides in the surrounding grass, and preventing residents and travelers in risky areas from being bitten by mosquito vectors at night. They were asked to refrain from activities, wear long clothes and use repellents, and actively use insect screens (mosquito nets) when sleeping.
In the meantime, the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has been conducting malaria epidemic monitoring through the Malaria Vector Mosquito Investigation and Surveillance Project*. Protozoan genes were identified (1 pool; 10 animals). This was confirmed 9 weeks faster than 37 weeks in 2022 and 4 weeks faster than 32 weeks in 2021.
In addition, Paju City, where positive mosquitoes have been confirmed, has the highest density of vector mosquitoes (73% at week 28) among the business areas, so residents in the area need special attention to avoid being exposed to the risk of malaria.
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Recently, a total of 417 cases of malaria were reported as of July 29, a 2.2-fold increase compared to the same period last year (190 cases). By region, patients occurred in the order of Gyeonggi (62.4%), Incheon (15.1%), Seoul (12.5%), and Gangwon (3.8%). Ganghwa-gun) and Gangwon-gun (Cheorwon-gun).
Malaria Prevention Tips
– In Korea, refrain from outdoor activities as much as possible at night (right after sunset to just before sunrise) from April to October, when mosquitoes are active.
– When going out at night, wear long sleeves and long pants, avoid the area around the face and apply mosquito repellent to prevent mosquito bites.
– To prevent indoor mosquito invasion, it is recommended to maintain insect screens and use mosquito nets, and use indoor insecticides appropriately.
– If symptoms such as fever, chills, or headache occur after living in a malaria risk area, traveling, or serving in the military, seek medical attention immediately at a nearby medical institution.
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