Recently in Africa, an outbreak of diseases has been spreading throughout the continent due to an invasive mosquito. Cases rising in the condition known as malaria have been unusual but are quickly spreading. Scientists say that this invasive mosquito could potentially “disrupt Africa’s landscape of Malaria.”

Malaria Outbreak

The outbreak of Malaria in Africa has recently been linked to an invasive mosquito invading the region. The first reported outbreak, which seems to be exposure from Ethiopia, has led to a rise in cases spreading to more and more citizens. Many of the cases reported seem to be from parts of Ethiopia that usually don’t get much exposure to the disease. Scientists say that Malaria cases have been low there since the beginning of this year. In a city with 500,000 people, the reported number of cases from January to May had only been 2,400. As the outbreak has been spreading to numerous countries and cities, Malaria is becoming a serious health concern for the people living in Africa.

What is this “invasive Mosquito”

Scientists studying the recent outbreak of cases have discovered the mysterious mosquitoes spreading the disease to be known as “Anopheles \Stephensi” mosquitoes. These dangerous mosquitoes are reported to usually be found in Iran and India but have spread to Africa in the past year. About 97% of these types of mosquitoes are known to spread Malaria, and they normally thrive in rainy months. As they have spiked infections rapidly, scientists are trying to stop their spread of them. 

Other outbreaks in Africa 

While the citizens in Africa deal with another outbreak on their hands, it is one of many. Africa is known for commonly having diseases brought to their continent, and have had to bear the burden. From 2014-2016, the reported cases of the Ebola virus were a major outbreak in West Africa. Many infected and exposed to the virus got very ill and most likely died. While Ebola does have not been a major outbreak in years, citizens now have to deal with a new outbreak.