U.S. sees first malaria cases in 20 years

The Centers for Disease Control released an emergency warning Monday night confirming five cases of malaria in the United States. The CDC reported four cases in Florida and one in Texas, marking the first time in two decades that Americans contracted malaria at home. Malaria can be fatal if left untreated, with potential long-term effects such as kidney failure, seizures, and coma. All five patients have responded well to treatment, and officials see no connection between the Florida and Texas cases. The last U.S. outbreak of malaria occurred in 2003, with eight people diagnosed in Palm Beach County, Fla.

Why is malaria not a bigger issue in America? The United States eradicated malaria in the early 1950s with mass-produced insecticides, drainage systems for still water, and the wide use of window screens. Americans still contract malaria occasionally, but usually while traveling overseas. Florida health officials now advise residents to drain any source of standing water, only use windows with screens, wear long shirts and pants, and use insect repellent containing DEET.

Dig deeper: Read Heather Frank’s report in WORLD Magazine about researchers developing a scent to repel malaria-carrying mosquitos.