Queensland authorities investigating two new locally-acquired malaria cases

Authorities are investigating two more locally-acquired cases of malaria in Queensland after a rise in cases in recent months.

A second resident has contracted malaria in the Torres Strait local government area, according to state government.

Investigations into the two cases are ongoing.

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Authorities have identified 71 malaria cases in Queensland, of which 97 per cent were overseas acquired.

The cases were predominantly acquired in Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands.

The first locally-acquired case in the Torres Strait local government area was identified last month.

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According to the World Health Organisation, symptoms of malaria can be mild or life-threatening.

Mild symptoms include fever, chills and headache.

Severe symptoms can include fatigue, confusion, seizures and difficulty breathing.

Symptoms can start within 10 to 15 days of getting bitten by an infected mosquito.

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