The Gauteng Department of Health has issued a public health warning over a rise in malaria cases and deaths in the South African province, urging residents to take precautions when travelling to malaria-endemic areas.
Between January and September 2026, Gauteng recorded 768 malaria cases and 17 deaths, representing a 38.6 per cent increase in cases compared to the 554 infections and six deaths reported during the same period in 2025.
The province recorded 666 cases and seven deaths throughout 2025, meaning the number of deaths reported in the first nine months of 2026 had already more than doubled the previous year’s total.
The department said 15 of the 17 people who died this year had a history of travelling to countries within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. Mozambique accounted for approximately 59 per cent of the reported deaths.
Gauteng is not classified as a malaria-endemic province, prompting health authorities to strengthen surveillance and train healthcare workers to identify suspected cases early. The department said it monitors malaria cases daily and conducts audits of all malaria-related deaths.
Public awareness campaigns are also being intensified in high-risk communities, including at transport hubs such as taxi ranks and bus stations. One such campaign was recently held at Holomisa Sports Grounds in Bekkersdal.
Residents travelling to malaria-endemic areas have been advised to visit travel clinics in their health districts for guidance on preventive measures before and during their journeys.
The department has also urged anyone who develops symptoms such as fever, chills, headaches, muscle aches, nausea or vomiting while travelling to or returning from an affected area to seek immediate medical attention and disclose their travel history.
