- Ngami records significant gender disparity in malaria incidence
- Out of 168 cases reported in Ngami, 117 involve men
- All three reported deaths in the region are men
- DHMT decries public rejection of Indoor Residual Spraying, misuse mosquito nets
- Annual IRS records a decline; only about 59% percent of spraying done against 85% target this year
With the recent spike in the number of Malaria cases nationally, The Ngami District Health Management Team (DHMT) has recently reported a concerning trend of a disproportionately high number of malaria cases affecting men in the region, than their female counterparts.
This was revealed by the Ngami DHMT Coordinator, Dr Sandra Maripe in an interview. According to her, out of a total of 168 reported cases in the district, a staggering 117 of those affected have been identified as males, highlighting a significant gender disparity in the incidence of malaria.
She also acknowledged an alarming fact that all three reported deaths due to malaria in Maun have been male individuals.
Currently there has not been any scientific explanation to this gender disparity in malaria incidence.
Botswana has been experiencing an upsurge in malaria cases after the outbreak started in Okavango and spread to other districts including Ngami, Ghanzi, Chobe, Tutume and Boteti. Toward the end of March, a total of 1 368 cases were recorded and six patients had died.
There have also 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.
Meanwhile, the spike in high numbers of malaria cases has also been linked to the rejection by members of the public to allow for Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS) and the misuse of mosquito nets provided by the government.
Dr Maripe noted that the annual IRS has seen a decline with only about 59 percent of spraying done this year as compared to the 85 percent set by government. She emphasized the importance of Indoor Residual Spraying in reducing mosquito populations and preventing the spread of the disease.
The coordinator has since urged the public to open up their houses to be sprayed, highlighting that the simple measure could significantly contribute to the efforts to control malaria in the region.
The Ministry of Health continues to closely monitor the situation and has all health facilities on high alert to ensure adequate care and management of suspected malaria cases. It has since urged 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,” MoH Acting Director of Health Services Dr Oratile Mfokeng- Selei has previously advised.
For his part, Kabelo Damba a 25-year-old Maun resident noted that though mosquito nets are uncomfortable to use, people could opt for mosquito repellents and other preventative measures put in place.
“Men in Maun should take proactive measures to protect themselves against malaria, including the proper use of mosquito nets, seeking timely medical treatment, and adhering to recommended preventive measures in order to combat this disease,” he said.
