Seoul: South Korean health authorities have issued a nationwide malaria alert after detecting the Plasmodium vivax malaria parasite in mosquitoes. The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) revealed that genetic material from the malaria parasite was found in Anopheles mosquitoes collected in Paju and Yeoncheon County in northern South Korea between July 27 and August 2.

According to Anadolu Agency, the detection of the parasite in vector mosquitoes indicates an increased likelihood of contracting malaria from mosquito bites. The alert follows a previous advisory issued on June 22 due to a rise in vector mosquito populations, with alerts subsequently issued in five areas due to case clusters and increased mosquito presence.

Despite the nationwide alert, there has been a decrease in malaria cases in South Korea this year, with 201 domestically acquired cases recorded between January 1 and August 1, down 43.4% from 355 cases during the same period last year. Historically, malaria cases in South Korea have been concentrated near the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) separating the country from North Korea, but risk areas have expanded in recent years.

The alert comes amid an unusually hot summer in South Korea, although the KDCA noted that malaria-vector mosquito density is lower than last year, partly due to extreme heat. Health officials have warned that mosquito populations could increase once the heat subsides and have urged enhanced mosquito-control measures in malaria-risk areas.

Authorities have advised residents and visitors in malaria-risk regions to avoid nighttime outdoor activities, wear long clothing, and use mosquito repellents, screens, and nets. Individuals experiencing suspected symptoms, such as fever and chills, are encouraged to seek testing at public health centers or medical facilities.