The forecasted number of malaria cases reported in South Africa for 2024 is 12.91 thousand cases, showing a gradual increase from the 2023 actual figure. For 2025, 2026, 2027, and 2028, the figures are projected at 13.06, 13.2, 13.35, and 13.49 thousand cases respectively. This indicates a steady year-on-year increase, with variations between 1.16% to 1.32% annually.
Despite the increase, the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over the five-year period is relatively modest, averaging approximately 1.18% per year.
Future trends to watch for:
- Implementation and effectiveness of malaria prevention and control programs.
- Potential impacts of climate change, particularly increased temperatures and rainfall variations, which may affect mosquito populations.
- Development and accessibility of new medical treatments and vaccines.
- Socioeconomic changes that influence public health infrastructure and access to healthcare.