GABORONE, April 22 (Xinhua) -- The central and southern parts of Botswana have been hit by a malaria outbreak, a senior health official said on Sunday.

At least 35 malaria cases have been clinically confirmed since last week, Chief Health Official in the Ministry of Health and Wellness Tjantilili Mosweunyane told Xinhua over the phone.

Health officials are working on contingent measures to combat the disease, Mosweunyane said.

"The public is notified that the country, especially the central and southern parts, is experiencing a high level of malaria transmission following the recent heavy rains," she said.

Although no death has been recorded yet, Mosweunyane said malaria is a serious disease transmitted by mosquitoes and can cause death if not treated quickly.

"It is important to recognize malaria signs as early as possible. These include fever, severe headache, chills, sweating, abdominal pains, nausea, vomiting and confusion," said Mosweunyane.