The CDC issued a health network alert for malaria cases found in Florida and Texas. Malaria is a serious illness caused by a parasite and spreads to humans when bitten by infected mosquitos. It can be fatal. These are the first malaria cases reported in the U.S. since 2003. Using mosquito repellent can help prevent Malaria.

Travelers should be careful when traveling to malaria-prone regions. Most malaria cases in the US are from international travel to countries where malaria is common.

Symptoms of malaria include fever, chills, headache, nausea, vomiting and fatigue.

After getting infected, symptoms can begin ten days to four weeks but can be sooner or later in some cases (CDC).

Even though there are new malaria cases in the United States, the risk for locally acquired malaria is still extremely low.

Travelers are encouraged to take steps to protect themselves against malaria. Prevention methods include avoiding mosquito bites by using mosquito repellents and mosquito nets, and could include using malaria prevention medicine after consulting with a healthcare provider.

Healthcare providers are encouraged to report any cases of malaria to help the CDC gain information about the disease.

The CDC is working with Texas and Florida health departments to learn more about locally acquired malaria cases.