The Afghanistan Ministry of Public Health has reported an increase in malaria cases in Afghanistan, with approximately 50,000 incidents recorded in the first six months of the current year.
Sharafatzaman Amarkhil, spokesperson for the ministry, stated on Monday, July 8th, that the number of malaria patients has increased by 69% compared to last year in Afghanistan.
Amarkhil emphasized that nearly 370,000 patients with malaria symptoms visited health centers and hospitals in the first six months of 2024, with 50,000 cases confirmed positive.
He highlighted that seasonal diseases like malaria escalate in warmer climates nationwide.
Earlier, the World Health Organization also reported a 30% increase in malaria cases in Afghanistan, emphasizing that approximately 77% of the population is at risk of contracting the disease.
According to the organization, Afghanistan ranks fifth in terms of malaria cases in the Eastern Mediterranean region.
Malaria is a deadly but preventable and treatable disease transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito.
Fever, chills, and weakness are among the major symptoms of malaria, with the WHO stressing prevention through the use of mosquito nets, insect repellents, protective clothing, and installing screens on household windows.
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