Malaria surge in Kenyan highlands may be tied to global warming

Warmer temperatures linked to global warming may be responsible for surge in malaria cases in Kenya's highlands, once largely free of the mosquitos that carry the disease.

Amid continuing debate over the health consequences of climate change, specifically the spread of vector-borne afflictions like malaria, scientists reported growing cases in the highlands that correspond to higher temperatures.

"Malaria is the most climate-sensitive, vector-borne disease affecting most of the African population," said Andrew Githeko, a researcher with Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) Tuesday.