CDC Issues Advisory on First Locally Acquired Malaria Cases in U.S. in 20 Years; Cases Confirmed in Florida and Texas

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a Health Advisory to inform clinicians, public health authorities, and the general public about the identification of locally acquired malaria cases, the potential rise of imported malaria cases, and the need for rapid access to IV artesunate, the first-line treatment for severe malaria in the U.S.

Recently, the CDC has noted a handful of locally-acquired malaria cases in Florida (4 cases) and Texas (1 case) over the last two months. These instances mark the first occurrence of locally-acquired mosquito-borne malaria in the United States since 2003. Both states are conducting ongoing investigations in collaboration with the CDC, including surveillance for additional cases and mosquito control measures. The patients identified thus far have received treatment and are recovering.

Despite these cases, the risk of acquiring malaria locally remains extremely low in the U.S. However, the CDC advises clinicians to consider a diagnosis of malaria in any individual with a fever of unknown origin, irrespective of their travel history. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent severe disease or death and limit further transmission to local Anopheles mosquitoes.

On the other hand, the CDC also expresses concern for a potential increase in imported malaria cases due to an expected rise in international travel this summer.

"Malaria is a serious and potentially fatal disease transmitted through the bite of an infective female anopheline mosquito," the CDC warns. The disease can also be transmitted from mother to fetus, through blood transfusion or organ transplantation, and via unsafe needle-sharing practices. Worldwide, over 240 million cases of malaria occur each year, mostly in Africa.