Malaria is not endemic in the U.S. This means it does not regularly occur or spread in the U.S. In a typical year, the U.S. reports about 2,000 cases of malaria. Most of these cases are in people who contract malaria while traveling to another country where malaria spreads and return to the U.S.
On rare occasions, local transmission (spread) occurs because of an imported case of malaria. People do not spread malaria to other people, like the common cold or the flu.
In Florida, Malaria is transmitted through infected Anopheles mosquitoes. Effective treatment is readily available through hospitals and other health care providers.
Disease Prevention
Learn about steps that can be taken to help prevent mosquito and tick bites and ways to maximize protection against vector-borne illnesses.
Transmission
P. falciparum and P. vivax were previously present in Florida, but was eradicated from the state in the late 1940s. Local transmission has occurred only rarely in recent years, likely due to mosquito control measures, improved housing with screens, use of repellents, and drainage practices. A number of malaria cases are reported in immigrant and travelers to areas where malaria risk is high.
There are 14 Anopheles mosquito species in Florida, all of which are potentially capable of transmitting malaria. An. quadrimaculatus and An. crucians have been major malaria vectors in the past. Since introduction from endemic areas occurs regularly and competent vectors exist in the state, local transmission is possible.
Symptoms
Symptoms of malaria depend on the Plasmodium species, but in most cases develop between 7-30 days after the bite of an infected mosquito. P. vivax can develop up to a year after exposure and if not treated properly can cause additional attacks (relapses).
Commonly, people experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, sweats, headache, nausea and vomiting, body aches, and general malaise. P. falciparum can cause severe and life-threatening disease.
Prevention
Treatment
Prescription drugs can treat and cure malaria, however the types of drugs and length of treatment depends on:
- Type of malaria
- Where (geographic location) the person was infected
- How sick they are when treatment starts
Other important factors are age and whether the patient is pregnant.
Information for Travelers
Travelers to high malaria risk countries should talk to their health care provider about malaria prophylaxis and should take personal mosquito control measures.
Those classified as visiting friends and relatives are primarily from malaria-endemic developing countries. Individuals returning to their home country may be at increased risk for malaria.
This increased risk has been attributed to high risk behaviors such as longer visit times and staying in villages and remote rural areas without screened windows or air conditioning.
Preventing Malaria
Check to see if malaria is present in the location you will be visiting before you travel.
- Visit a health care provider familiar with travel medicine 4-6 weeks before traveling to countries that are endemic for malaria to obtain guidance on travel information, vaccinations for other diseases, and antimalarial drug prescriptions.
Surveillance and Data
In 2023, Florida has reported confirmed cases in Sarasota County. All individuals have been treated and have recovered. The Department maintains a close collaboration with local partners and county mosquito control in its ongoing efforts.
In 2012, 65 cases of imported malaria were reported in Florida. All 65 cases were associated with travel or immigration.
Arbovirus Surveillance
The national arbovirus surveillance system works with state and federal partners to develop national public health strategies for the distribution of arbovirus surveillance, prevention, and control.
Information for Health Care Providers
Disease Reporting Requirement
All practitioners, health care facilities, and laboratories in Florida are required to notify the Florida Department of Health of diseases or conditions of public health significance under section 381.0031, Florida Statutes, and Chapter 64D-3, Florida Administrative Code.