13 Sep 2015

The Ministry of Health has cautioned the public residing in malaria prone areas to be vigilant as the rainy season begins. A press release from the health ministry also states that areas not known to have malaria such as Kgalagadi and Gaborone now experience it.

As malaria is spread by mosquitos, the public is advised to dispose of items likely to breed mosquitos such as empty tins and old tyres, filling holes and other openings likely to collect water, and to clear the grass around the house where mosquitos can hide. 

The release also states that the ministry will conduct annual house to house indoor residual spraying from October to December. This involves spraying the inside walls of the house with an insecticide that kills the malaria transmitting mosquito. Areas to be sprayed include Bobirwa, Boteti, Tutume, Ngami, Okavango and Chobe districts.

Communities in these districts are requested to cooperate with health officials and allow them to spray their houses. 

Malaria symptoms include fever, fever headaches, sweating and chills, nausea, diarrhea and vomiting as well as general body pains.The public is requested to visit the nearest health facility should they experience such symptoms. Ends