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Malaria: Causes, Symptoms, Prevention, and Treatment

~Introduction

Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by parasites transmitted to humans through the bite of

Female Anopheles Mosquito

infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. It remains a major public health concern, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Despite global efforts to control it, malaria still affects millions each year, especially in Africa and parts of Asia.

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~Causes of Malaria

Malaria is caused by Plasmodium parasites. There are five species that infect humans:

• Plasmodium falciparum (most deadly)

  
  
  

• Plasmodium vivax

• Plasmodium ovale

• Plasmodium malariae

• Plasmodium knowlesi

These parasites are transmitted when an infected Anopheles mosquito bites a human, injecting the parasite into the bloodstream.

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~Symptoms of Malaria

Symptoms usually appear 10–15 days after the bite. Common symptoms include:

• High fever and chills

• Headache

• Sweating and fatigue

• Muscle and joint pain

• Nausea and vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Anemia (due to destruction of red blood cells)

In severe cases, malaria can cause:

• Organ failure

• Seizures

• Coma

• Death (especially from P. falciparum if not treated quickly)

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~Diagnosis

Malaria is diagnosed through:

• Blood smear test (microscopic examination)

• Rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs)

Prompt diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.

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~Prevention of Malaria

Prevention is the best strategy, especially in high-risk areas. Key preventive measures include:

1. Avoiding Mosquito Bites:

   • Use insect repellent (DEET-based).

   • Wear long-sleeved clothing.

   • Sleep under insecticide-treated bed nets (ITNs).

     
     
     

   • Stay indoors during peak mosquito activity (dusk to dawn).

2. Environmental Control:

   • Eliminate stagnant water where mosquitoes breed.

   • Use indoor insecticide spraying.

3. Preventive Medication:

   • Antimalarial drugs like chloroquine, mefloquine, or doxycycline for travelers to high-risk regions.

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~Treatment of Malaria

Treatment depends on the type of malaria parasite and severity of infection. Common medications include:

• Artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) – the most effective treatment for P. falciparum.

• Chloroquine – for P. vivax in areas without resistance.

  
  
  

• Primaquine – to kill dormant liver stages of P. vivax and P. ovale.

Early treatment greatly reduces the risk of complications.

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~Global Impact and Efforts

Malaria affects over 200 million people annually and causes over 600,000 deaths, mostly among children under five in sub-Saharan Africa. Organizations like the WHO, UNICEF, and the Roll Back Malaria Partnership are working to reduce transmission through education, vaccines (like RTS,S), and improved access to treatment.

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~Conclusion

Malaria is a preventable and treatable disease, yet it continues to burden many parts of the world. Through awareness, early diagnosis, effective treatment, and preventive measures, we can reduce its impact and move closer to its eradication.