With a Rise in Reported U.S. Malaria Cases, the International Property Maintenance Code Can Help Safeguard Communities from the Spread of Diseases

On June 26, 2023, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a health advisory in response to reported cases of malaria in Florida and Texas within the last two months. This marks the first time locally acquired infections of malaria have been detected in the U.S. in 20 years.

Malaria is a disease caused by a parasite that infects humans through mosquito bites. Once inside the body, symptoms such as high fever, chills, headache and fatigue can appear.

If not promptly diagnosed and treated, malaria can become life-threatening, affecting vital organs and leading to severe complications.

Protection Through the International Property Maintenance Code

With malaria cases being reported in the U.S., it is important to remember that building codes and standards play an important role in safeguarding communities and the built environment from hazards and harmful diseases.

Taking measures to protect your home from insects can contribute to reducing the possible spread of malaria within your community.

How buildings are designed, constructed and maintained can have an impact on the occurrence of diseases, such as malaria. For example, the International Code Council’s International Property Maintenance Code® (IPMC) requires screens for insect control. Proper installation of insect screens in homes lessens the impact of infections from spreading.

“Code Council codes and standards provide a multitude of solutions related to commercial and residential construction that benefit the public health and safety of occupants and owners,” said Russ Manning, Code Council Senior Vice President of Technical Services. “Relative to the spread of malaria, there are aspects of the built environment that can help protect occupants by preventing mosquitoes through the use and proper maintenance of window and door screens, appropriate perimeter drainage to prevent standing water, proper operation of exhaust fans, and suitable building envelope construction preventing mosquitoes from accessing the building’s interiors.”

To learn more about how building codes and standards can protect your communities, click here.