Malaria Cases Double as Deaths Spike to 85

Rutendo Mazhindu – ZimNow Reporter

Zimbabwe has recorded a sharp rise in malaria infections and deaths, with 36,423 cases and 85 fatalities reported by Week 15 of 2025 — more than double the 17,539 cases and 34 deaths recorded during the same period last year.

According to the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC), the spike is being driven by increased rainfall and higher temperatures, which have intensified mosquito breeding. Illegal mining activities have also been cited as a contributing factor, creating stagnant water sources that serve as breeding grounds.

“Malaria deaths increased from 34 in 2024 to 85 deaths in 2025 during the same period,” said the MoHCC in a statement marking World Malaria Day.

Health officials warned that despite progress in recent years — including a decline in malaria incidence from 32 per 1,000 people in 2020 to 4 per 1,000 in 2024 — gains remain fragile and easily reversible.

“Late presentation has contributed to the increase in malaria deaths. We encourage all patients with signs of malaria to visit their Village Health Worker or nearest health facility for treatment,” the Ministry said.

Currently, Zimbabwe has 31 malaria elimination districts. In 2024, seven districts recorded no local transmission. So far in 2025, six districts remain malaria-free. Authorities credited community participation in prevention measures such as sleeping under treated nets, using mosquito repellents, and residing in sprayed homes.

This year’s World Malaria Day was commemorated under the theme “Malaria Ends with Us: Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite”, highlighting the need for continued innovation, research, and domestic funding in the fight against malaria.

“The increase in malaria transmission this season is a reminder that we must continue investing in prevention and control,” said the MoHCC.

Zimbabwe continues to work with global and local partners — including the Global Fund, CHAI, PLAN, and affected communities — to reduce the burden of malaria across the country.