Did you know that the CDC has issued a malaria advisory? There have been a few cases reported in TX and FL, the first locally acquired mosquito-borne malaria cases in the United States since 2003. While your risk is currently low (per ABC Chief Medical Correspondent, Dr. Jennifer Ashton), it’s important to stay informed and take preventive measures. Here are some tips courtesy of the CDC to keep yourself and your loved ones safe!

• Take steps to prevent mosquito bites and control mosquitos at home to protect yourself from any mosquito-borne illness. Including but not limited to:

–Use EPA-registered insect repellent

–Wear protective clothing like loose fitting long sleeve shirts and pants

–Use proper screens on your windows and doors

–Stop mosquitoes from laying eggs in or near water by frequently dumping out any standing water.

–For professional mosquito treatment of your home, call Clark’s

• Before you travel, learn about the health risks and precautions for malaria and other diseases for your destination.
• If you are traveling internationally to an area where malaria occurs, talk to your healthcare provider about medicines to prevent you from getting malaria.
• If you have traveled to an area where malaria occurs and develop fever, chills, headache, body aches, and fatigue, seek medical care and tell your healthcare provider that you have traveled.