The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency issued a malaria alert nationwide on the 19th. Malaria is transmitted by bites from the Anopheles mosquito. The protozoan parasite transferred when mosquitoes suck human blood can cause fever and chills, and in severe cases, can be fatal.
The malaria alert means that the probability of infection has increased when bitten by mosquitoes. The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency issued the alert after confirming the presence of the Samil malaria parasite in mosquitoes collected during week 31 of this year (July 27 to September 2). As of now, there are 373 confirmed malaria patients in the country, a 19% decrease compared to the same period last year.
Domestic malaria is primarily transmitted by mosquitoes coming from North Korea to residents or soldiers in areas near the Demilitarized Zone. Recently, as the weather has warmed, the transmission area has expanded. Mosquitoes are ectothermic animals, so their body temperature rises and they breed more actively when the temperature increases.
To prevent malaria, it is essential to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. The Anopheles mosquito is black-bodied and is often found near underbrush or livestock sheds. Their wing flapping sound is quiet, making it difficult to notice them even when they are flying nearby.
It is best to reduce outdoor activities in the evenings when mosquitoes are most active. Since malaria-carrying mosquitoes prefer dark colors, it is advisable to wear light-colored long clothing when going out. You should wash frequently to remove sweat odors, as they can attract mosquitoes. Im Seung-kwan, director of the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, noted, "The mosquito population is on the rise," and urged people to adhere to preventive measures.