Goa: Malaria Cases Set to Rise

Malaria morbidity is set to rise in Goa after the free fall in the incidence over the past five years, say sources.

From more than 6,000 cases in 2007, the number dropped to barely 900 cases last year, the state directorate of health services reported.

Malaria - Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Prevention, Treatment
Malaria is caused by a parasite that enters blood through the bite of an infected mosquito. It is characterized by fever, vomiting, shivering, sweating and other symptoms.

"But the bad news is that with four months to go, we have already scaled last year's peak of 900 cases," Dr Sachin Govekar told reporters Tuesday.

Dr Govekar is in charge of vector-borne diseases at the state directorate of health services.

What is worse, health authorities expect the number to climb in the monsoon, when mosquito infestation is higher.

About Mosquito Diseases
Mosquito-borne diseases, like malaria, filaria, dengue, etc are common in places conducive of mosquito breeding. Swamps, ponds and stagnated drainage provide optimal breeding ground for mosquitoes.

"In July, we had a tough time, there were lots of cases. In the backdrop of the monsoon showing a resurgence towards the fag end of August, there is the possibility of more cases," Dr Govekar said.

Goa reported no malaria deaths this year. Last year, there were two deaths attributed to malaria.

Quiz on Malaria
Malaria is a common parasitic disease of the tropics, resulting in a million deaths every year. It is most commonly found in tropical countries. The symptoms of malaria include fever with chills, headache, muscle aches, tiredness, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Malaria fatalities can be reduced if they are detected early and treated appropriately

Meanwhile, a recent case of a schoolchild dying of dengue has caused alarm.

Source-IANS

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