Ernakulam has reported over 30 confirmed cases of malaria since April 1, 2025.
The total number of confirmed cases as on June 13 was 34. Of these, 21 cases were reported between May 1 and June 13. In April, as many as 13 confirmed cases were reported from various parts of the district, according to official data available with the Department of Health.
A majority of them were cases of indigenous malaria caused by Plasmodium vivax, considered less dangerous than the Plasmodium falciparum species. Most cases were imported (malaria introduced into the State through inter-State travel) or introduced from other States, according to the district health authorities.
The areas that reported confirmed cases between April 1 and June 13 included Alangad, Keezhmad, Munambam, Parakadavu, Mazhuvannoor, Edathala, Vazhakulam, Manjapra, Kalamassery, Vengoor, Ezhikkara, Kalamassery, Thripunitura, Kaloorkad, Kadavanthra, Koonamavu, Kothamangalam, Maradi, Pandappilli, Vennala, Cheurvattoor, and Puthrika.
Stating that Kerala is a low-prevalence area for malaria, Dr. Rajeev Jayadevan, convener, Research Cell of the Indian Medical Association, Kerala, pointed out that malaria was being reported in the State primarily due to imported disease.
“For instance, migrant workers from other parts of India, where malaria is endemic, come to Kerala in search of work. In addition, international travellers from Africa also bring cases of malaria. As it is not a common cause of fever in the region, the diagnosis can be missed if healthcare professionals are not specifically looking for it,” he said.
He said malaria must be suspected if the patient profile fits that of malaria, for instance, with travel history and clinical features such as fever, anaemia and jaundice. “Testing will identify new pockets and help limit the spread. As mosquitoes spread the disease, vector control measures need to be carried out,” he said.
Dr. Ashadevi, District Medical Officer, said the cases had been mostly reported from areas that had significant presence of inter-State workers. “We have increased the number of screening camps in such areas as part of the preventive measures initiated. Most of those diagnosed with the disease were asymptomatic,” she said.
Published – June 17, 2025 08:27 pm IST