Malaria in Texas: A Rare but Real Threat

Malaria is a serious and potentially fatal disease caused by a parasite that is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. The parasite can live in the human body for years, and can cause recurring bouts of illness.🤔

Malaria is not endemic to Texas, meaning that it is not regularly transmitted there. However, there have been a few cases of locally acquired malaria in Texas in recent years. In 2023, a Texas resident who spent time working outdoors in Cameron County was diagnosed with malaria. This was the first locally acquired case of malaria in Texas since 1994.

The mosquito that transmits malaria in Texas is the Anopheles mosquito. These mosquitoes are most active at night, and they breed in areas with standing water. Malaria can be prevented by avoiding mosquito bites, using insect repellent, and sleeping under a mosquito net.

If you are traveling to an area where malaria is endemic, it is important to take steps to protect yourself from mosquito bites. You should also talk to your doctor about getting vaccinated against malaria.

Here are some additional information about malaria in Texas:

* The most common type of malaria in Texas is Plasmodium falciparum. This type of malaria is the most severe, and can be fatal if not treated.

* There are an average of 120 travel-related malaria cases in Texas each year.

* The last locally acquired malaria case in Texas occurred in 1994.

* The Anopheles mosquito is the only mosquito that can transmit malaria in Texas.

* Mosquitoes that transmit malaria are most active at night.

* Malaria can be prevented by avoiding mosquito bites, using insect repellent, and sleeping under a mosquito net.

* If you are traveling to an area where malaria is endemic, it is important to talk to your doctor about getting vaccinated against malaria.

If you think you may have malaria, it is important to see a doctor right away. Malaria can be a serious illness, but it is treatable if caught early.

Source 😁 Bard.google.com