Queensland Health Investigates Two Local Malaria Cases

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Health authorities in Queensland are on high alert after two more locally-acquired cases of malaria were confirmed — bringing new concern to a disease that’s usually picked up overseas.

A second local case has been detected in the Torres Strait local government area, following the first one which was identified just last month. Investigations are still underway into both cases to figure out how and where exactly the infections occurred.

So far this year, 71 malaria cases have been reported across Queensland — but here’s the thing: 97% of them were acquired overseas, mostly in Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. That’s why these recent local transmissions are raising eyebrows — and prompting a closer look from health officials.

Malaria isn’t something we commonly see being spread within Australia. It’s caused by a parasite transmitted through mosquito bites, and depending on the type and severity, symptoms can range from mild to life-threatening.

According to the World Health Organisation, early symptoms include:

• Fever

• Chills

• Headache

But in more severe cases, it can cause:

• Fatigue

• Confusion

• Seizures

• Difficulty breathing

Symptoms typically show up 10 to 15 days after a bite from an infected mosquito — which means someone might not even realise they’re sick until it starts to hit hard.

Authorities are urging anyone in affected areas — especially around the Torres Strait — to stay vigilant. If you’re feeling unwell and you’ve been in mosquito-prone areas, it’s worth getting checked out.

They’re also stepping up surveillance and prevention measures to make sure this doesn’t become a bigger issue.

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