Both the number of malaria cases and deaths caused by it have decreased in Mpumalanga over the past seven years, the provincial health department said on Tuesday.
There has been a steady drop in cases and a ”pleasing decline” in deaths since 2000/01, according to statistics released by the department.
In 2000/01, about 20 people died out of 12 753 cases, a fatality rate of 0,16%.
A total of 1 786 people contracted malaria in the high-transmission season that ended in March this year, said spokesperson Mpho Gabashane. Seven of those died, a fatality rate of 0,39%.
In 2005/06, there were 23 deaths out of 4 678 cases, a fatality rate of 0,49%.
The results bear testimony to a plan to coordinate malaria-combating efforts between Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal and Limpopo, as well as Mozambique and Swaziland, said Gabashane.
The Lubombo Spatial Development Initiative Plan has ensured information is shared.
”The successes are also attributed to more resources being availed for the programme, and the rapid and consistent spraying in the communities,” said Gabashane.
Residents have also been told to report to health centres as soon as they suspect signs and symptoms of malaria. — Sapa