The recent heavy rains have left us with a high level of Malaria transmission. Malaria cases has risen in areas like; Okavango, Ngami, Chobe, Boteti, Tutume and Bobirwa. There are also cases of the disease have also been reported in areas that do not usually have malaria. These include North East, Serowe, Palapye, Mahalapye, Kgatleng, Kweneng, Kgalagadi South and Gantsi.
Since Malaria is a deadly disease, the Government through the Ministry of Health has therefore issued a Press Release in which they advise the public to take preventative measures. You are urged to heed the following tips so that you stay safe;
– Reduce mosquito breeding sites by clearing up bushes, draining stagnant water and disposing of objects that are likely to collect water such as tins and old tyres.
– Avoid being bitten by mosquitoes by using insecticide treated nets, mosquito repellents and wear clothes that fully cover the body including the back, arms and legs.
– Seek medical advice two weeks before traveling to malaria prone countries.
– Visit the nearest health facility as soon as you experience any of the Malaria signs and symptoms and take medication as prescribed by a health worker.
– In Malaria endemic areas the public is advised to always sleep under Insecticide treated mosquito nets.
The ministry will continue to monitor the situation and all public health facilities are on high alert to provide the necessary health service for the management of suspected malaria cases.
For more information please call our toll free number 0800 600 740.
