Experts have observed that rapid changes in climate, including rising temperatures and increased rainfall, are affecting the behavior and distribution patterns of insects such as mosquitoes on the planet.
These changes have significant implications for insect-borne diseases like malaria, as they can impact the growth cycle of the malaria parasite within mosquitoes, leading to faster transmission rates.
According to research by Shüné Oliver and Jaishree Raman from the National Institute for Communicable Diseases and CDC, James Gathany, Nigeria remains significantly affected by malaria, accounting for a substantial portion of global malaria deaths in 2020.
The impact of climate change on mosquitoes is evident, as warmer temperatures allow them to develop faster and spread to new locations, thereby increasing the risk of vector-borne diseases. Increased rainfall also contributes to the growth of mosquito breeding sites, leading to higher malaria case numbers during certain periods.
The relationship between climate change and malaria is complex, and while some studies predict an increase in malaria cases due to climate change, others suggest no significant impact. Nonetheless, as the Earth warms, mosquitoes will breed faster and transmit diseases more frequently.
Mosquito behavior can adapt to warmer temperatures, and the malaria parasite’s life cycle is highly dependent on temperature, affecting the onward transmission of malaria. The changing seasons, influenced by climate change, are also altering the malaria transmission season, potentially shifting it from summer to cooler months.
Rainfall plays a significant role in malaria transmission, with incidence increasing during La Niña years and decreasing during El Niño years. Malaria hotspots should be targeted for surveillance to understand the role of microclimate on malaria transmission.
Although there is no current evidence of malaria-risk areas expanding in South Africa, it remains crucial to be vigilant about malaria symptoms, understand the risk of infection, and know how to respond if malaria is suspected.
In conclusion, further research is needed to comprehend the complex relationship between climate change and malaria and implement effective control measures to combat its impact.