25-04-2025
Why malaria cases spike in summer, and what you can do to stay safe
Summer brings more than just heat waves, it also fuels a spike in malaria cases. This seasonal surge, experts say, is largely driven by climate factors and behavioural patterns of mosquitoes, the primary carriers of malaria."Global warming and climate change are increasingly creating favourable environments for mosquitoes," said Dr. Shalini Bhutta, Consultant Physician at Neotia expert added that rising temperatures and altered rainfall patterns accelerate the mosquito life cycle. "This helps them to become infectious faster and reproduce more rapidly," Dr Bhutta said. advertisement
These factors collectively contribute to the alarming rise in mosquito-borne diseases like malaria during warmer SUMMER FUELS MALARIAHot weather is a game-changer for Anopheles mosquitoes, the primary vector for malaria. Their life cycle, from egg to adult, quickens in warmer temperatures, allowing them to multiply at an accelerated this, standing water from summer rains or poor water management becomes an ideal breeding ground. Coupled with increased human outdoor activity during evenings, this creates a perfect storm for malaria TO PREVENT INFECTION?Preventing malaria requires a multi-faceted approach, particularly in areas where the disease is prevalent. "Malaria prevention isn't just about protecting yourself; it's about reducing mosquito populations and cutting the transmission chain," said Dr expert-recommended strategies to protect yourself:Use Insecticide-Treated Bed Nets (ITNs)advertisementITNs are highly effective in preventing mosquito bites, especially during dusk-to-dawn hours when mosquitoes are most active. Ensure nets are properly tucked to maximise Residual Spraying (IRS)Applying insecticides on walls kills mosquitoes upon contact and significantly reduces indoor mosquito Protective Clothing and Use RepellentsWearing long-sleeved shirts and pants and applying EPA-approved insect repellents can help repel mosquitoes during outdoor Breeding SitesDrain stagnant water, cover water storage containers, and clear vegetation near your home to disrupt mosquito breeding MedicationsTravellers to malaria-prone regions should consult a healthcare provider for antimalarial drugs to reduce the risk of infection. Medication choices depend on travel destinations and individual health conditions."Prompt diagnosis and treatment of malaria cases are critical to prevent the disease from spreading further," stressed Dr. malaria requires collective action. While individuals can adopt preventive measures, government initiatives like awareness campaigns and large-scale insecticide spraying play a crucial role in managing these strategies, the fight against malaria can gain a foothold even in the heat of summer. Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember that prevention is always better than cure.
