Malaria has killed three people in opposition-held territory within Panyijiar County of Unity State early this month, an opposition official said.

Speaking to Radio Tamazuj last week, the opposition-appointed commissioner of Panyijiar County, Yohanes Kijek Ruot said the area is witnessing a terrible deterioration amid growing rates of malaria and other infectious diseases.

"The area is witnessing worsening health conditions. Three people died of malaria,” he said.

Kijek urged aid agencies to urgently help citizens with medicines.

Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by parasites that are transmitted to people through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. It is a preventable and curable disease.