Everyone knows about Malaria and many have probably been diagnosed with the disease. Malaria is a major disease, especially in developing countries and has been prevalent for years.
Malaria is caused by the protozoan “Plasmodium” and is found in tropical countries. Four species cause disease in humans: P. falciparum (most dangerous), P. ovale, P. vivax, and P. malariae. Malaria spreads to humans through the bite of the female mosquito of the genus “Anopheles”. It is preventable and can be cured.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 2023, there were an estimated 263 million Malaria cases and 597,000 Malaria deaths in 83 countries. In 2023, the African Region accounted for 94% of Malaria cases (246 million) and 95% (569,000) of malaria deaths, with children under five years accounting for 76% of all malaria deaths in the region.
The parasite undergoes several life stages even while inside the human body, presenting different antigens at different stages of its life cycle. The parasites invade the human liver, multiply and later break free into the bloodstream; this is when symptoms begin within 10-15 days of being bitten.
Symptoms of Malaria include fever as the main characteristic symptom. Others include chills, nausea and vomiting, headache, general body weakness and abdominal pain. In extreme cases, symptoms can include impaired consciousness, seizures, difficulty breathing, dark or bloody urine, yellowing of the eyes and abnormal bleeding, among others.
Diagnosis depends on blood tests through a rapid diagnostic test and identification of parasites on thin and thick blood smears. Antimalarial drugs are available and reduce mortality rates if the diagnosis is made early.
Measures for preventing Malaria include using mosquito nets when sleeping, using mosquito repellents and coils/vaporizers, wearing protective clothing, installing screens on windows, eliminating stagnant water pools, ensuring a clean environment by keeping grass short and keeping fences and trees trimmed.
In pregnant women, it is crucial to take prophylactic doses at the correct times.
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