Every now and then I'll discover a piece of mail that contains a tragic message.

Inscribed within this very sad postcard, the message states that on September 26th 1934 a close friend or beloved family member has died from malaria in Monroe, Louisiana. 

Malaria is a mosquito-borne infectious disease that affects humans and other animals. Malaria causes symptoms that typically include fever, tiredness, vomiting, and headaches. In severe cases, it can cause jaundice, seizures, coma, or death.

Addressed to Mrs.Mattie Mitchell in care of Mrs.Viola Watson of Simsboro, Louisiana and postmarked Spetember 27th 1934, the postcard, signed by Ruth, says:

Dear Mama,

I just want to let you know that Christina died last night at 8 o'clock. She died of malaria. It had dried up all of her blood and even the marrow in her bones. I feel so sorry for Ada. They are to have her funeral tomorrow. We both are well.

Lovingly

Ruth 

The World Health Organization estimates that in 2021 there were 247 million new cases of malaria resulting in 619,000 deaths. Children under 5 years old are the most affected, accounting for 67% of malaria deaths worldwide in 2019.

Malaria is presently endemic in a broad band around the equator, in areas of the Americas, many parts of Asia, and much of Africa; in Sub-Saharan Africa, 85–90% of malaria fatalities occur.

Malaria is prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions because of rainfall, consistent high temperatures and high humidity, along with stagnant waters where mosquito larvae readily mature, providing them with the environment they need for continuous breeding.

Climate change is likely to affect malaria transmission, but the degree of effect and the areas affected is uncertain.

The summer is upon us in Memphis.