Nationwide Advisory Issued on 18th, One Week Earlier Than Last Year
As the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency issued a malaria advisory nationwide on the 18th, Ulsan City has urged residents to strictly follow malaria prevention guidelines.
This year’s malaria advisory was issued one week earlier than last year.
This is analyzed to be due to the maximum temperature in malaria risk areas (Seoul, Incheon, Gyeonggi, Gangwon) during the 23rd week (June 2-8) reaching 27.3°C, about 2°C higher than the average and last year, which has accelerated mosquito activity.
The “Anopheles mosquito,” which transmits malaria, is a small mosquito with black spots on its wings and inhabits rice paddies, animal barns, and puddles. It mainly feeds at night.
If bitten by a mosquito carrying the malaria parasite, symptoms such as high fever, chills, headache, and diarrhea may occur, and in severe cases, it can be fatal.
To prevent malaria, it is essential to: ▲Avoid outdoor activities at night during summer ▲Wear light-colored long sleeves when going out ▲Use mosquito nets when sleeping outdoors ▲Visit a hospital immediately if high fever occurs after being bitten by a mosquito.
An official from Ulsan City stated, “As temperatures rise, the mosquito population is expected to increase, so it is important to follow prevention guidelines to avoid mosquito bites during outdoor activities.” The official also added, “In particular, those who visit risk areas should get tested at a nearby public health center or medical institution if they develop suspected malaria symptoms.”
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