IMCA has issued its latest Safety Flash with a focus on mosquito-borne diseases due to a recent fatality from malaria. The incident occurred offshore Ghana. A non-immune foreign national contractor presented himself to the offshore medic with flu-like symptoms. He tested negative for malaria twice via rapid diagnostic testing. He was sent ashore for further evaluation and subsequently died as a result of complications arising from malaria.
Why did it happen?
- Mosquito bite prevention measures were not taken (e.g. repellent, long-sleeved clothing);
- Malarial prevention drugs (prophylaxis) were not taken (e.g. Malarone, Doxycycline);
- Malaria was not diagnosed early and as a result the deceased did not receive the necessary medical treatment in a timely way.
The following points were reiterated:
- The importance of refresher training in malaria management for all relevant personnel;
- The importance of seeking early treatment;
- The correct and timely use of rapid reaction diagnostic kits
- The following World Health Organization (WHO) “ABCD” approach to Malaria management will be helpful:
- A is for Awareness
- B is for Bite prevention
- C is for Chemoprophylaxis
- D is for Diagnosis – early diagnosis
Please click below to find further information on how to protect yourself from mosquito bites
Mosquito Bite Prevention for Travelers by CDC
Also IMCA shares information on the Zika Virus due to recent outbreak
Control Meaures for Zika
- Reduce the risk of importation of the Zika virus – travellers to countries with the Zika virus infection are advised to protect themselves from mosquito bites;
- Facilitate early detection of cases – returning travellers from affected areas are advised to seek medical attention if they develop symptoms of Zika such as fever, skin rashes, joint and muscle pains, headaches and red eyes;
- Contain the spread of Zika virus infection – confirmed cases will be admitted to a public hospital until they recover and test negative for the virus. Admitting them into a single room at the hospital will also minimise their risk of being bitten by mosquitoes while they are carrying the virus, which may result in further local transmission.
Travellers to countries with local transmission of the Zika virus should take precautions and protect themselves from mosquito bites by:
- Wearing long sleeves, long trousers and/or appropriate covering clothing
- Applying insect-repellent
- Sleeping under mosquito nets or in rooms with wire-mesh screens to keep out mosquitoes.
IMCA Recommendations
In countries where mosquitos are an on-going problem, the following “5-step Mozzie Wipeout” has proved worthwhile:
1. Changing water in vases and bowls on alternate days;
2. Removing water from flower pot plates on alternate days;
3. Turning over all water storage containers;
4. Covering bamboo pole holders when not in use;
5. Keeping gutters clear from blockages and using appropriate insecticide in roof gutters monthly.
Source: IMCA Safety Flash
