TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan has reported seven imported malaria cases as of Monday, the highest number for the same period in nearly 19 years.
The patients, aged between their 20s and 60s, were infected in Sierra Leone, the Solomon Islands, Tanzania, Kenya, and other countries in Central Africa. Since 2007, Taiwan has recorded 194 confirmed malaria cases, all imported, with most coming from African countries.
The Centers for Disease Control has reported one severe case this year. A Taiwanese man in his 60s traveled to Central and West Africa as part of a tour group in late February.
Upon his return to Taiwan on March 21, he developed symptoms, including fatigue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and jaundice, prompting him to seek medical attention. His symptoms worsened by March 25, including chills and reduced urination, leading to hospitalization.
Tests confirmed he had contracted malaria, and he is currently receiving treatment in the intensive care unit. No other members of his travel group have shown symptoms, and local authorities are conducting follow-up checks.
According to the WHO, 263 million malaria cases were reported globally in 2023, resulting in 597,000 deaths. Africa accounted for 94% of the cases and 95% of the deaths worldwide.
From 2020-2024, Taiwan recorded 27 malaria cases. Only three of these individuals had taken malaria prevention medication, while the remaining 24 either did not take medication or had unclear medication histories.
The CDC urges travelers to consult a medical travel clinic at least one month before visiting malaria-endemic regions.
Malaria is transmitted by infected mosquitoes, and symptoms typically develop seven to 30 days after exposure. In severe cases, malaria can cause spleen enlargement, jaundice, shock, and liver and kidney failure.
Travelers should follow their doctor’s instructions for malaria prevention, taking medication before, during, and after travel. The CDC also recommends wearing light-colored clothing, applying government-approved mosquito repellents, and staying in places with window screens.
If symptoms appear after travel, individuals should seek medical help immediately. Providing travel history and details of any malaria prevention medications taken will assist with diagnosis and treatment.
