Gauteng malaria cases rise as 17 deaths are reported in 2026

Gauteng has recorded a worrying increase in malaria infections and deaths this year, prompting health authorities to urge residents to take extra precautions, particularly when travelling to countries where the disease is common.

Although Gauteng is not classified as a malaria-endemic province, the latest figures from the Gauteng Department of Health show that the illness remains a serious concern, especially among people returning from high-risk destinations.

Between January and September 2026, the province recorded 768 malaria cases and 17 deaths. This represents a 38.6% increase in infections compared with the same period in 2025, when 554 cases and six deaths were reported.

The latest figures also show an increase compared with the full 2025 calendar year, which saw 666 cases and seven deaths.

Travel to neighbouring countries raises concern

The department has highlighted cross-border travel as a significant factor behind the increase in malaria-related deaths.

Of the 17 people who died between January and September this year, 15 had travelled to countries within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.

Mozambique accounted for approximately 59% of the reported deaths, according to the department.

The figures serve as a reminder that travelling outside South Africa, particularly to malaria-affected destinations, can expose people to health risks that may not be immediately apparent when they return home.

Know the symptoms before travelling

The Gauteng Department of Health is encouraging residents planning trips to malaria-endemic areas to visit travel clinics across the province’s five health districts before departure.

Malaria is preventable and treatable, but recognising the symptoms early and seeking medical assistance can make an important difference.

Common symptoms include:

• Fever
• Chills
• Headaches
• Muscle aches
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Anyone experiencing these symptoms while visiting a malaria-endemic area or after returning from one should seek medical attention immediately.

The department also stresses the importance of telling healthcare workers about recent travel, as this information can help them identify and investigate a possible malaria infection.

Health authorities step up awareness campaigns

Alongside its travel warnings, the provincial health department is strengthening its efforts to prevent further infections and improve early detection.

Environmental health practitioners across all five health districts investigate reported cases to establish possible sources of infection and determine whether cases are imported or classified as odyssean malaria.

The province also conducts audits of malaria-related deaths to identify contributing factors and improve its response.

Healthcare workers receive ongoing training to help them recognise suspected cases, particularly because malaria is not commonly expected in a non-endemic province such as Gauteng.

Reported infections are also monitored daily to identify emerging trends and support timely interventions.

Community awareness campaigns have been expanded in identified hotspots, with particular attention given to high-risk populations and busy travel periods.

These initiatives include educational outreach at taxi ranks, bus stations and other strategic locations where travellers can receive information about malaria symptoms, prevention and treatment.

On Wednesday, 11 November, the department held a malaria awareness event at Holomisa Sports Grounds in Bekkersdal, in the West Rand District.

The event focused on educating residents about how malaria spreads, its warning signs and the measures communities can take to prevent and control the disease.

The department is continuing to work with municipalities, the National Institute for Communicable Diseases and the National Department of Health to strengthen malaria surveillance and prevention.

For Gauteng residents planning cross-border trips during the upcoming festive season, the warning is particularly relevant: knowing the risks, taking precautions before travelling and seeking medical attention when symptoms appear could help prevent further malaria-related deaths.

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