Botswana is experiencing an upsurge in malaria cases in the past four weeks, with seven cases recorded in non-endemic areas like Francistown since January this year.
According to Ministry of Health Chief Public Relations Officer Doctor Christopher Nyanga since the malaria outbreak in Okavango District in October last year, “1 368 cases have been recorded and six patients have died. For now, I cannot give the precise figures according to districts, save to say Okavango, Ngami, Ghanzi, Tutume and Boteti districts are the most affected. Last year Botswana recorded 284 cases and two deaths.”
In a press statement issued on Tuesday by Acting Director of Health Services Dr Oratile Mfokeng- Selei, the outbreak started in Okavango and spread to other districts including Ngami, Ghanzi, Chobe, Tutume and Boteti.
“Additionally, there have been reports of malaria cases in non-endemic areas such as Ghanzi, Serowe, Francistown, Gaborone and Mahalapye. The surge in cases is attributed to the recent heavy rains, which have created favourable conditions for mosquito breaking which perpetuates malaria transmission”, said Dr Mfokeng -Selei.
The Ministry urges the public and travelers to be vigilant and recognise the early signs and symptoms of malaria, which include fever, headache, chills, sweating, body pains, nausea, vomiting and confusion.
“To control and reduce the spread of malaria, the public is advised to reduce malaria spread by eliminating mosquito breeding sites, such as clearing vegetation and draining stagnant water. Additionally, to avoid mosquito bites, individuals should use insecticide treated nets, apply repellants, and wear long sleeve clothing. Travelers to malaria prone areas should seek medical advice two weeks before departure. Those living in endemic areas are encouraged to sleep under insecticide treated nets, especially at night”, said Acting Director of Health Services.
Meanwhile, the Ministry is closely monitoring the situation and has all health facilities on high alert to ensure adequate care and management of suspected malaria cases.
In March this year Okavango District Health Management Team Coordinator Dr Bokwena Moila a total of
511 malaria cases since the season began. Children between the ages of five and 15 had been detected with the disease, while three expectant women had also contracted malaria. Most of the cases have been recorded in villages of Kauxwi, Beetsha, Ngarange and Sekondomboro. Unlike in previous years where high incidents were registered in cattle posts in Okavango district.
Malaria season in Botswana starts from November till June. According the World Health Organisation, Africa Regional office, in 2021 Botswana had recorded 93 percent reduction in malaria cases.
