'Above normal' malaria rates expected in Africa

The World Health Organisation has warned that countries in Southern Africa could experience higher than average malaria transmission rates this season, and has urged travellers to malaria-prone countries to take appropriate treatment beforehand.

According to Zimbabwe's Herald, Dr Abdoulie Jack, of the WHO, said in a statement: "Malaria transmission levels from November 2007 to May 2008 are expected to be above normal in most parts of Southern Africa.

"In Southern Africa, the heavy rains and likelihood of flooding in certain areas from December on have a possibility of increasing the risk of malaria transmission in many parts," he explained.

Malaria is the second largest cause of illness and deaths in Southern Africa, killing more than 250,000 people in the region every year.

Dr Jack advised all travellers and tourists to take anti-malaria medication as advised by their doctors, before entering high malaria-risk areas.

He also said they should seek immediate medical attention if they develop flu-like symptoms, including fever, headache, body pains, sweating, and fatigue.

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