Florida Facing Uptick in , Malaria Cases , Amid Divisive Political Climate.
Florida Facing Uptick in , Malaria Cases , Amid Divisive Political Climate.
'Newsweek' reports that Florida governor Ron DeSantis is facing increased pressure as the number of malaria cases in the state continues to grow.
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'Newsweek' reports that Florida governor Ron DeSantis is facing increased pressure as the number of malaria cases in the state continues to grow.
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The news comes after reports that two public health roles aimed at combating the spread of diseases have been vacant for months.
According to the latest Florida Health Department virus-monitoring report, two more cases of malaria were detected in Sarasota County between June 25 and July 1.
'Newsweek' reports that this brings the number of malaria cases in the state this year to six.
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The uptick in cases of the mosquito-borne virus marks the first time in twenty years that it has been locally acquired within the U.S. Last month, NBC reported that Florida's Bureau of Epidemiology, which is meant to track and prevent the spread of communicable diseases, has been without a leader since June.
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Last month, NBC reported that Florida's Bureau of Epidemiology, which is meant to track and prevent the spread of communicable diseases, has been without a leader since June.
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At the same time, a key administration position for the agency's surveillance program has also reportedly been vacant since March.
According to Dr. Aileen Marty, a Florida International University professor of infectious disease, told NBC the vacant roles both served "critical public-health functions.".
According to Dr. Aileen Marty, a Florida International University professor of infectious disease, told NBC the vacant roles both served "critical public-health functions.".
The executive director of the American Public Health Association, Dr. George C.
Benjamin, argues that the divisive political climate in Florida has eroded support for public health.
There has, unfortunately, been recent politicization of the use of vaccines and health services for refugees and other immigrants, which may explain the challenges in filling this vital position, Dr. Aileen Marty, Professor of infectious disease at Florida International, via NBC
