Jambi records less malaria cases

JAMBI: Jambi province recorded a drop in the number of malaria cases, which stood at 241 from January to June this year compared to 1,617 cases the previous year.

Head of the Disease Control division at the provincial health office Yulinda Fetritura said there was a new malaria treatment, Aptemicemin Combination Therapy (ACT) at community health clinics.

The medicine has been recommended by the Health Ministry and is only available at community health centers. "Based on research conducted by the ministry, the medicine generally consumed by patients can only reduce fever, which would relapse, so medication should continue for 14 straight days," Yulinda said.

To quell the spread of malaria, the health office distributed 3,139 mosquito nets to pregnant women.

The assistance is part of a national program by the Health Ministry. In Jambi, only four areas have received the assistance; Jambi city, and Muarojambi, Merangin and Batanghari regencies.

"Malaria is dangerous for expecting mothers and their babies. It could cause miscarriage and anemia in pregnant women and low infant birth weight," she added. - JP