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The number of malaria cases in United States is highest since 1971, a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention affirmed.

Last year there were around two thousand malaria cases reported in the country which is a 14 per cent rise from 2010 and highest in 40 years, CDC said.

Majority of the U.S. residents were caught by this disease while travelling in another country. Of all the malaria cases acquired, 70 per cent of them were acquired in Africa, according to CDC.

The most imported cases of any single country is India with number near to 225, followed by Nigeria.

Malaria elimination efforts which were introduced in 1940s acted positively and the cases of the disease are very less till now.

“The increase in malaria cases reminds us that Americans remain vulnerable and must be vigilant against diseases like malaria because our world is so interconnected by travel,” said CDC Director Dr. Tom Frieden said in a statement, according to Fox News.

Malaria is caused by a parasite which is spread by a mosquito named Anopheles. The disease can be deadly sometimes as five malaria-related deaths were reported last year in the country.

CDC also said that it is important that people who are frequent traveller should take care themselves and always carry anti-malarial drugs, insect repellent, insecticide-treated bed nets and protective clothing.

CDC also has a list of recommendations for malaria prevention by country.

It is advised that the travellers should always consult a health care provider before leaving the country.