Locally Acquired Malaria Case Confirmed in Maryland

Maryland has reported its first case of locally acquired malaria in over 40 years. The infected individual did not recently travel out of the country or to states with recent locally acquired malaria cases. Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease caused by a parasite and can lead to severe complications if left untreated. The risk of locally acquired malaria in the US is extremely low, with the majority of cases occurring in people traveling abroad. Maryland health officials recommend using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and eliminating standing water to prevent mosquito bites.