Understanding the Spread of Malaria in Southwest Florida
Florida is currently facing a statewide advisory regarding mosquito-borne illnesses. The number of Malaria cases in Southwest Florida has risen from four to six since Monday, with four confirmed cases in Sarasota. Malaria is a deadly disease that claims millions of lives worldwide each year. However, due to early detection and treatment resources available in the United States, fatalities are much less common.
Jay Gupta, the director of the Public Health Program at Florida Gulf Coast University, explains that Malaria is transmitted through mosquito bites and typically manifests with high fever and chills. In severe cases, it can affect organs such as the brain, leading to anemia and jaundice. It may also impact the lungs and kidneys.
To prevent mosquito bites, experts recommend using bug spray, wearing long pants and sleeved shirts, and staying indoors during the evening hours.
Malaria spreads when mosquitoes bite an infected individual and then bite another person. Additionally, it can be transmitted from mother to child, through blood transfusions, or by sharing contaminated needles.
Dr. Natasha Agramonte, a public health entomologist, emphasizes that although Malaria is not prevalent in America, it enters the country through travel, especially international trips. Mosquitoes carrying the parasite can hitch rides on cruise ships, hide in suitcases, enter through strong winds, or bite travelers before their return home.
"We observe numerous cases transmitted locally every year because people enjoy traveling to different countries worldwide and unknowingly bring back souvenirs they didn't anticipate," says Dr. Agramonte.