Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency issued a nationwide malaria alert on the 19th. Malaria is transmitted by bites from Anopheles mosquitoes. The parasitic protozoan transmitted when a mosquito feeds on human blood causes fever and chills and, in severe cases, can be fatal.
A malaria alert means the probability of infection from a mosquito bite has increased. The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency issued the alert after Plasmodium falciparum was detected in mosquitoes collected in week 31 this year (July 27–Aug. 2). So far, there have been 373 domestic malaria patients. That is a 19% decrease compared with the same period last year.
Domestic malaria has mainly been transmitted when mosquitoes came down from North Korea and infected residents or soldiers in areas near the Demilitarized Zone. Recent hot weather has expanded the transmission areas. Mosquitoes are poikilothermic animals, so when the temperature rises their body temperature increases and they reproduce more actively.
To prevent malaria, above all you must avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. The Anopheles mosquito has a black body and is often found in grass or near livestock sheds. Its wingbeat is quiet, so it can be hard to notice even when it is flying nearby.
The best strategy is to reduce outdoor activities in the evening when mosquitoes are most active. Because malaria-carrying mosquitoes prefer dark colors, it is advisable to wear light-colored long clothing when going out. Since sweat odor can attract mosquitoes, bathe frequently. Im Seung-kwan, director of the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, said the number of vector mosquitoes is increasing and asked people to follow prevention guidelines.