Nationwide malaria alert issued in Korea after parasites discovered in mosquitoes

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Nationwide malaria alert issued in Korea after parasites discovered in mosquitoes

Published: 07 Aug. 2024, 15:20 Updated: 07 Aug. 2024, 16:02

Health officials spray insecticide to kill mosquitoes capable of carrying malaria and Japanese encephalitis near Suwon Stream in Suwon, Gyeonggi, on July 31. [YONHAP]

The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) issued a nationwide malaria alert on Wednesday following the discovery of malaria parasites in mosquitoes. This is the first nationwide malaria warning since the advisory issued on June 18.

During a routine survey in areas with a high risk of malaria, the KDCA found four marsh mosquitoes carrying Plasmodium vivax among the 102 mosquitoes collected in Paju, Gyeonggi, from July 30 to 31.

The presence of the malaria parasite in these mosquitoes indicates an increased risk of malaria transmission through bites, prompting the KDCA to issue the alert.

A malaria alert is issued when malaria-carrying mosquito clusters are observed after a nationwide malaria advisory, or when the average number of disease-carrying mosquitoes per day exceeds five for two consecutive weeks in specific areas.

This discovery of the malaria parasite in mosquitoes comes about a month later than last year's initial detection, which occurred on July 9.

Malaria is typically spread through marsh mosquitoes infected with the disease, and symptoms include high fever, loss of appetite, chills and flu-like symptoms.

As of July 27, there have been 347 domestic malaria cases, a 16.9 percent decrease compared to the same period last year. However, the average number of mosquitoes capable of carrying malaria discovered daily this year is 6.5, up from last year's average of 4.4.

Additionally, this year saw 24 instances where more than two malaria cases occurred within one kilometer of each other in high-risk areas.

Earlier this summer, malaria warnings were issued for nine cities and districts, including Seoul's Yangcheon and Gangseo districts.

Malaria is most commonly contracted from mosquito bites after sweating from outdoor activities at night when mosquitoes are most active. It can also be acquired while walking near lake parks and puddles where mosquitoes breed and lay their eggs.

"Residents in malaria-prone areas should avoid outdoor activities, wear long sleeves, and use mosquito repellents and nets," the head of the KDCA said.

If symptoms of malaria appear, especially after visiting high-risk areas, immediate medical attention is necessary, as untreated cases can lead to a relapse.

BY WOO JI-WON [woo.jiwon@joongang.co.kr]