Malaria caused by Plasmodium ovale

Malaria Causes by Plasmodium Ovale

Malaria is a devastating disease so crucial to public health that it has been deemed a “neglected tropical disease” by the World Health Organization. Malaria is caused by a family of parasites known as Plasmodium. Plasmodium ovale is one of a few species of the Plasmodium family of parasites responsible for causing malaria in humans. It is found primarily in Asia, South America, and eastern and western Africa.

While the majority of individuals infected with P.ovale do not exhibit any symptoms, the virus is capable of entering a person's bloodstream and causing a variety of symptoms including fever, headache, anemia, and convulsions, as well as serious complications including organ failure and death. In more severe cases, P.ovale can lead to cerebral malaria, which can cause brain damage or coma due to lack of oxygen to the brain.

The parasite that causes malaria can be transmitted from person to person through mosquitoes. It is important to take steps to prevent the spread of malaria, including using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants outdoors, and sleeping in an air-conditioned or otherwise screened room.

Treatment for P.ovale infections includes the use of drugs such as chloroquine and mefloquine, as well as quinine. Since P.ovale has developed resistance to standard drugs, other medications, such as artemisinin-based combination therapies, have been developed to address resistant strains.

Preventing Malaria Caused By Plasmodium Ovale

In order to prevent malaria caused by Plasmodium ovale, it is important to take steps to avoid mosquito bites. This includes wearing insect repellent, staying indoors in the evening, wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants when outside, and sleeping in an air-conditioned or otherwise enclosed room. Travelers to areas where malaria is endemic should also take the antimalarial drug chloroquine at least two weeks before exposure and continue to take it for at least four weeks after returning. In addition, it is important to seek prompt medical treatment if symptoms of malaria appear. By taking these steps, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of contracting malaria caused by Plasmodium ovale.