Awasa — The malaria epidemic that has been spreading in three woreads of the Sidama Zone, SNNP State, has been brought under control, the zonal health desk announced.

Desk Head Kekebo Debeko told WIC that the epidemic which was witnessed in Dara, Dale and Hagere-Selam woredas in the middle of July was brought under control following the collaborative efforts of the state's health bureau and the woredas' Health offices in spraying chemicals and giving treatments.

The swampy areas created by the heavy rain during the month and the increase in temperature created favourable condition for the outbreak of the epidemic, the head said.

Preventive measures, including the distribution of mosquito nets, have also been undertaken in places where there are signs of outbreak, he said, urging the public to participate in preventive activities.