Malaria

Malaria is a serious and potentially life-threatening disease caused by Plasmodium parasites. These parasites are tiny, single-cell microorganisms, which enter the body through the bites of infected mosquitoes. Infection with malaria parasites can cause fever, chills, anemia, seizures, organ failure, coma, and death. In 2015, there were 212 million cases of malaria, resulting in 429,000 deaths worldwide, mostly among African children.

Symptoms of Malaria

Malaria can cause a range of symptoms, ranging from mild flu-like symptoms to severe organ failure. Symptoms usually appear 10 days to four weeks after being bitten by an infected mosquito, which is called the incubation period. Common symptoms include:

Fever
Headache
Chills
Sweating
Weight loss
Muscle pain
Fatigue
Nausea
Vomiting

Diagnosis of Malaria

Your doctor will use a combination of physical examination, lab tests, and imaging tests to diagnose malaria. Your doctor may order a blood test to look for the malaria parasite. If the test is positive, your doctor may order further tests to identify the strain of malaria and determine the best course of treatment.

Treatment of Malaria

Malaria is highly treatable, and the earlier the diagnosis, the better. Depending on the severity of the infection, treatment may include:

Antimalarial drugs to kill the parasite
Antibiotics to treat any secondary bacterial infections
Fluid and electrolyte therapy to prevent dehydration
Pain medication to reduce discomfort
Blood transfusions to treat severe anemia
In severe cases, ventilator support or kidney dialysis may be necessary

Prevention of Malaria

The best way to prevent malaria is to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes carrying malaria parasites. Be sure to take the necessary precautions when traveling to areas where malaria is common:

Stay in well-screened or air-conditioned rooms.
Cover exposed skin by wearing long sleeves and pants.
Use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
Sleep under a mosquito net treated with insecticide.
Take prophylactic medication (antimalarial drugs) as prescribed.