The Gauteng Department of Health has raised concerns over a sharp increase in malaria infections and fatalities, recording 768 cases and 17 deaths between January and September 2026.
The figures represent a 38.6% increase in infections compared to the same period in 2025, when 554 cases and six deaths were reported.
Although Gauteng is classified as a non-malaria-endemic province, the department has warned that residents remain at risk, particularly when travelling to areas where the disease is prevalent.
Department spokesperson Steve Mabona said the rising number of infections and deaths highlighted the need for residents to remain vigilant and take precautions when travelling.
Of particular concern is that 15 of the 17 people who died in 2026 had travelled to countries within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.
This accounts for 88.2% of the recorded fatalities, with Mozambique linked to approximately 59% of the deaths.
The department noted that the figures highlight the risks associated with cross-border travel, particularly as the festive season approaches and more residents are expected to visit neighbouring countries.
Residents planning to travel to malaria-endemic areas have been urged to seek medical advice at travel clinics across the province's five health districts and take appropriate precautions before and during their journeys.
The department has also warned that malaria can become life-threatening if symptoms are ignored or treatment is delayed.
Common symptoms include fever, chills, headaches, muscle aches, nausea and vomiting.
Health authorities have advised anyone who develops these symptoms while visiting or after returning from a malaria-endemic area to seek immediate medical attention and inform healthcare workers about their travel history.
The department emphasised that malaria is preventable and treatable, with early diagnosis and treatment playing a crucial role in preventing complications and fatalities.
In response to the increase, the department said it was strengthening malaria prevention, surveillance and control measures across all five health districts.
Environmental Health Practitioners are investigating reported infections to establish whether patients contracted the disease locally or outside South Africa.
The province is also conducting audits of malaria-related deaths to identify contributing factors and improve its response, while healthcare workers are receiving additional training to recognise suspected cases.
The department said it was monitoring reported infections daily to identify emerging trends and ensure timely interventions.
Public awareness campaigns are also being intensified at taxi ranks, bus stations and other strategic locations ahead of the festive travel period.
On Wednesday, November 11, the department conducted a malaria awareness campaign at Holomisa Sports Grounds in Bekkersdal, on the West Rand, where residents were educated about how the disease spreads, its symptoms and prevention measures.
The department said it would continue working with municipalities, the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), the National Department of Health and other stakeholders to strengthen malaria prevention and control efforts.