MALARIA related deaths increased from 65 to 116 countrywide in the first two months of 2017 compared to the same period last year.

Matabeleland North provincial medical director Dr Nyasha Masuka said the 116 malaria deaths were recorded in January and February this year.

“In 2015 during the same year, 117 deaths were reported and they dropped in 2016 to 65. This year we recorded 116 deaths and 71 913 malaria cases.

“The 2016/2017 rainy season provided breeding ground for mosquitoes thereby increasing the risk of malaria. There is a need for weekly monitoring of disease trends and follow up on susceptible areas,” said Dr Masuka.