By Mapaballo Borotho
- Gauteng is experiencing a sharp rise in malaria cases and deaths, with 414 infections and 11 fatalities already recorded in early 2026.
- This is a significant increase compared to the same period last year, raising concerns about growing transmission risks.
- Health officials urge residents, especially travellers, to seek immediate medical care if symptoms appear.
There has been an alarming increase in Malaria cases and related deaths in Gauteng.
According to the provincial Department of Health, there is a worrying rise in both malaria infections and fatalities, underscoring the urgent need for strengthened surveillance, early detection, and prompt treatment to prevent loss of life.
Malaria is a potentially life-threatening disease transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito.
Although preventable and treatable, delayed diagnosis and treatment can lead to severe illness and death.
The Department’s spokesperson, Kealeboga Mohajane, says more than 600 cases were recorded between January and December 2025, resulting in seven deaths.
“During the first quarter of 2026 (January to March), the Department had already recorded 414 confirmed cases and 11 deaths.
This represents a significant increase compared with the same period in 2025, which recorded 230 cases and one death.
This upward trend signals heightened transmission risk, particularly in the early months of the year after the festive season, when many residents travel to malaria-endemic regions, increasing their exposure and risk of infection upon their return,” she added.
The public has been urged to remain cautious and seek immediate medical attention, particularly if they have recently travelled to malaria-endemic areas such as Limpopo, Mpumalanga, Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Malawi.
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