Epidemiology in the news

Malaria risk during the World Cup 2010 in South Africa

Malaria, which spreads through the bites from infected mosquitoes, affected about 243 million people in 2008, and 863 000 deaths due to malaria occurred in that year, 89% of those in Africa. (1 ) But what is the risk of contracting malaria for tourists travelling to South Africa for the World Cup 2010?

No malaria in stadiums

When comparing the map of South Africa showing the stadiums (Fig. 1) with the map of the part of the country where malaria is prevalent (Fig. 2), one can see that only Mbombela stadium is located in a malaria risk area. Nelspruit is however a low risk area where taking antimalarial drugs is not recommended. One can take precautions to avoid getting bitten, e.g. using repellent sprays or evaporating tablets.

Fig. 1 Stadiums World Cup 2010 South Africa

Fig. 2 Malaria risk areas South Africa

Low risk in Kruger National Park

When travelling to the Kruger National Park or Mapungubwe National Park (Limpopo Province), one enters a malaria risk area. (2) However, antimalarial drugs are only recommended from September to May, but the indicated preventive measures are important throughout the year. So soccer fans do not need to worry about attracting malaria while visiting South Africa for the World Cup 2010. But in case a person does develop flu-like symptoms 7-20 days after being in malaria areas, always test for malaria to be sure.

Vuvuzela poses a higher risk

Being in a stadium where the vuvuzela is blown might involve more risk for the spectators. Initial findings published in the South African Medical Journal show that the sound of the vuvuzela is dangerously loud according to occupational noise exposure standards and therefore poses a significant risk of noise-induced hearing loss. (3)

References:

1. World Health Organisation. World Malaria Report 2009. Geneva: WHO; 2009. Malaria world report
2. Gerritsen AA, Kruger P, Schim van der Loeff MF, Grobusch MP. Malaria incidence in Limpopo Province, South Africa, 1998-2007. Malaria Journal 2008, 7:162. Read the article in the Malaria journal
3. Swanepoel DW, Hall III JW, Koekemoer D. Vuvuzela – good for your team, bad for your ears. SAMJ 2010, 100:99-100. Read the article