Malaria in Greece
30 Aug 2016
On the 25 August 2016 the Greek Ministry of Health (GMoH) issued a press release [translated] in response to media reports regarding 12 districts in Greece that have banned blood donation because of malaria.
The GMoH acknowledged that there have been 4 locally aquired malaria cases this year, stating that these cases were sporadic. In response the GMoH advised that improved coordination of insecticidal spraying of mosquito breeding sites should help prevent further spread of disease.
Advice for Travellers
Avoidance of mosquito bites should always be considered as the first line of defence against malaria and other mosquito-borne infections, travellers should therefore take steps to avoid mosquito bites.