By Tendai Makaripe
Mashonaland West has recorded 33 malaria-related deaths and 7,141 cases since January, with children under 5 among the vulnerable groups affected, according to the provincial malaria situation report as of May 4.
The report says the province recorded three new deaths at Chinhoyi Provincial Hospital and 66 new infections in the previous 24 hours.
The rise in Mashonaland West malaria deaths raises concern for young children, who face a higher risk of severe malaria when families delay testing or treatment.
The report identifies Hurungwe as the hardest-hit district. Makonde, Sanyati, Zvimba and Kariba also continue to record cases.
Health experts say malaria can become dangerous quickly in young children. A child with fever, chills, vomiting, headache, weakness or loss of appetite needs urgent medical attention.
The provincial report says children under 5 and pregnant women remain among the affected vulnerable groups.
Health teams have stepped up malaria control measures across the province’s seven districts.
They have distributed artemisinin-based combination therapies, artesunate injections and rapid diagnostic test kits to health facilities.
The province has also strengthened community surveillance.
Village health workers now work with clinics and hospitals to detect cases early, report new infections and refer patients for treatment.
Authorities have also increased mosquito control measures.
Teams use biolarvicides to destroy mosquito breeding sites, while district health teams continue to distribute insecticide-treated nets in high-risk communities.
Health officials completed indoor residual spraying in Hurungwe, where they reached 90% room coverage and protected 88% of the population.
Kariba and Makonde have also rolled out mass insecticide-treated net distribution campaigns.
The province has also intensified health education through radio, roadshows and village meetings.
Officials want families to prevent mosquito bites, use treated nets and seek treatment early when children show symptoms.
Parents and guardians in affected districts should make sure children sleep under treated mosquito nets every night.
They should also take sick children to the nearest health facility as soon as symptoms appear.
Early testing and treatment can save children’s lives.
