Malaria infections worrying public health experts in Keralam

Public health authorities in Keralam are expressing concern over a worrying increase in malaria infections over the past five years. Imported cases, acquired outside the state, have risen sharply, while indigenous cases, resulting from local transmission, have also climbed. As of October 5, 2026, there have been four confirmed indigenous cases and 974 imported cases reported.

This year, one indigenous death and six imported deaths have been recorded. Last year, no indigenous deaths were reported, but two deaths occurred due to imported cases. The rise in cases began after 2021, with 252 imported and one indigenous death reported. The areas with the highest number of indigenous cases are Malappuram, Kozhikode, and Kannur.

Kollam, previously a hotspot, is now in recovery. Health officials attribute the surge to a high mosquito population and frequent traveler influx. They urge strengthening surveillance, screening migrants, and intensive testing for asymptomatic fever cases. The Health department plans to distribute insecticide-treated bed nets in affected regions and intensify prevention activities to avoid malaria-endemic regions.

Dr. T.S. Anish, an associate professor at Kerala University of Health Sciences, warns that the State's efforts in eradicating malaria in the 1960s are no longer effective due to increased travel and migrant populations from endemic areas. He also warns that climate change could further spread the disease to unreported regions.