Malaria fatality
- Safety Flash
- Published on 3 March 2016
- Generated on 24 August 2025
- IMCA SF 06/16
- 1 minute read
An incidence of malaria fatality has been brought to IMCA’s attention. The incident occurred offshore Ghana.
What happened?
A non-immune foreign national contractor presented himself to the offshore medic with flu-like symptoms. He tested negative for malaria twice via rapid diagnostic testing. He was sent ashore for further evaluation and subsequently died as a result of complications arising from malaria.
Why did it happen?
- Mosquito bite prevention measures were not taken (e.g. repellent, long-sleeved clothing)
- Malarial prevention drugs (prophylaxis) were not taken (e.g. Malarone, Doxycycline)
- Malaria was not diagnosed early and as a result the deceased did not receive the necessary medical treatment in a timely way. The following points were reiterated:
- The importance of refresher training in malaria management for all relevant personnel
- The importance of seeking early treatment
- The correct and timely use of rapid reaction diagnostic kits
- The following World Health Organization (WHO) ‘ABCD’ approach to Malaria management will be helpful:
- A is for Awareness
- B is for Bite prevention
- The importance of refresher training in malaria management for all relevant personnel
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