Health officials investigate what could be Washington states first locally acquired malaria case in Pierce County

Health officials in Pierce County, WA, are investigating what may be the state's first locally acquired malaria case. An East Pierce County woman developed symptoms and received a malaria diagnosis last Saturday, despite no recent travel history. Authorities suspect she contracted the disease from a mosquito that bit someone who had traveled to a malaria-endemic region. The Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department is working with the state Department of Health and the CDC to identify the source of the infection. They have assured the community that the risk to public health remains very low.

Malaria cases in the United States are generally linked to international travel, with Washington reporting between 20 to 70 cases yearly. The situation highlights the importance of monitoring mosquito populations and potential disease transmission locally. Health officials emphasize the need for public awareness and preventive measures against mosquito bites, especially in light of this unusual case.