Increased risk of Malaria due to recent floods in Limpopo

The Limpopo Department of Health has issued a warning about an increased risk of malaria transmission following recent heavy rains and flooding across the province.

The department says the floods have created favourable breeding conditions for mosquitoes, raising concerns of a possible rise in infections in the coming weeks.

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Since the start of the 2025/26 financial year on 1 April 2025, Limpopo has recorded 838 malaria cases and 12 deaths, underlining the ongoing public health threat. Tragically, two malaria-related deaths have been reported since the rains subsided.

Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS), one of the most effective malaria prevention measures, began in November 2025 and is expected to run until March 2026, targeting 1.1 million households. However, continuous rainfall has disrupted operations, with coverage currently at 48%, far below the expected 70% at this stage.

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Health officials warn that cases may increase towards late February as floodwaters recede and stagnant pools form. Communities are urged to seek urgent medical care if they experience symptoms such as fever, headache, nausea, diarrhoea or flu-like illness.

The department plans to intensify spraying and implement additional mosquito-control measures as conditions improve.