Lack of resources weakens fight against Malaria in sub-Saharan Africa

A lack of resources has been described as a major obstacle in the fight against malaria in sub-Saharan Africa.

The co-founder and CEO of Goodbye Malaria, Sherwin Charles, said South Africa faces a slightly different situation, as it has not relied on United States (US) support for malaria control, unlike several other countries in the region.

His comments come as the Gauteng Department of Health warns of a surge in cases, with 414 infections and 11 fatalities recorded since the start of the year.

Charles links the rise in cases to flooding in South Africa and neighbouring countries, adding that those recorded in Gauteng are most likely imported.

“Many of which would have come from our neighbours, primarily Mozambique. And for Gauteng, coming from an increase in the number of cases in Limpopo and Mpumalanga. So, the transmission may have taken place in those provinces, but the cases being treated in Gauteng.”

Health officials have warned Gauteng residents to be aware of malaria symptoms, including fever, chills, headaches, muscle pain and fatigue.