The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that five US residents, four in Florida and one in Texas, have been diagnosed with Plasmodium vivax, marking the first locally acquired cases of malaria since 2003. Fortunately, all individuals have received treatment and are currently improving. Despite the low risk of malaria in the US, the CDC is advising healthcare professionals to consider malaria as a potential diagnosis for patients with an unknown fever. The agency also recommends obtaining travel histories from symptomatic patients, as symptoms may include chills, headache, body aches, and fatigue. To confirm suspected cases of malaria, clinicians should order microscopic examinations of blood smears and a rapid diagnostic test. Prompt evaluation at facilities capable of providing swift diagnosis and treatment is crucial. Hospitals should have malaria diagnostic tests readily available and ensure access to intravenous artesunate and artemether-lumefantrine treatments or have a plan for obtaining them if necessary.

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