(WEAA) -- The Maryland Department of Health has confirmed a positive case of "locally acquired" malaria in the state.
According to a media release, an unidentified person in the Washington D.C. area contracted the mosquito-borne disease despite not having traveled outside of the country recently.
Officials say, it's the state's first case of locally acquired malaria in 40 years.
“Malaria was once common in the United States, including in Maryland, but we have not seen a case in Maryland that was not related to travel in over 40 years,” said Maryland Department of Health Secretary Laura Herrera Scott. “We are taking this very seriously and will work with local and federal health officials to investigate this case.”
“Malaria can be very dangerous and even fatal if it is not treated, but early treatment reduces the chances of complications,” said Deputy Secretary for Public Health Services Dr. Nilesh Kalyanaraman. “We urge the public to take precautions against mosquito bites, and if you develop symptoms after traveling abroad, seek urgent medical care.”
Officials say symptoms usually appear 7 to 30 days after an infective bite and include high fever, chills, body aches, diarrhea and vomiting.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the risk for locally acquired mosquito-transmitted malaria remains very low, however, individuals can take these precautions to prevent mosquito bites or travel-related malaria:
- Use insect repellent containing DEET on exposed skin.
- If weather and heat allow, wear loose-fitting, long sleeved clothing.
- Keep windows and doors closed or covered with screens to keep mosquitoes out of your house.
- Empty standing water at least once a week to prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs.
- Repair broken screening on windows, doors, porches, and patios.
- Before you travel, learn about the health risks and precautions for malaria and other diseases for your destination.
If you are planning to travel abroad, check with your health care provider for current recommendations on prescription medications to prevent malaria.
