Eleven children die of unknown malaria strain in Côte d'Ivoire

Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire (PANA) - Eleven children under-five years, out of 95 patients, have died from an unknown malaria strain at Nandalla village, in the Séguéla department, a locality about 450 km from Abidjan in northern Côte d'Ivoire.

The Health and Public Hygiene ministry said in a statement that all 95 children had the same symptoms characterized by high fever, vomiting and diarrhoea. 

It said tests carried out were positive for malaria. However, further tests such as blood samples are underway.

The ministry said it has taken precautionary measures, adding that all patients are systematically cared for. In addition, a joint team from the National Institute of Public Hygiene and the National Malaria Programme is on the scene.

The Ministry urged the population to use treated mosquito nets and insecticides and go to the nearest health centre once the first symptoms appear. It also urged people to avoid self-medication.

-0- PANA JU/TBM/BBA/MA 24Sept2019