InfectiousICD-10: B50-B54Around 249 million cases globally per year (WHO, 2022)
Malaria
Malaria is a life-threatening mosquito-borne disease caused by Plasmodium parasites transmitted through the bite of infected Anopheles mosquitoes. Symptoms typically appear 10–15 days after the infective bite and include high fever, chills, and flu-like illness. Without prompt treatment, severe malaria can lead to organ failure and death.
Symptoms
High fever and chills
Profuse sweating
Headache
Nausea and vomiting
Muscle and joint pain
Fatigue and malaise
Abdominal pain
Diarrhea
Anemia
Jaundice
Causes
- Plasmodium falciparum, P. vivax, P. ovale, or P. malariae parasites
- Bite from infected female Anopheles mosquito
- Blood transfusion from an infected donor
- Congenital transmission from mother to child
Risk Factors
- Travel to or residence in tropical and subtropical regions
- Lack of access to insecticide-treated bed nets
- Young children and pregnant women
- Weakened or absent immunity to malaria
- Lack of preventive antimalarial medication
Diagnosis
- Rapid diagnostic test (RDT) for malaria antigens
- Microscopic examination of blood smear
- Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing
- Complete blood count showing anemia and thrombocytopenia
Treatment
- Artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT)
- Chloroquine for P. vivax in sensitive areas
- Intravenous artesunate for severe malaria
- Supportive care including IV fluids and antipyretics
- Primaquine to prevent relapse of P. vivax and P. ovale
Prevention
- Use insecticide-treated mosquito nets while sleeping
- Apply DEET-based insect repellent to exposed skin
- Take prophylactic antimalarial medication when traveling
- Wear long sleeves and pants during dusk and dawn
- Support indoor residual spraying programs
When to See a Doctor
- Fever developing during or after travel to a malaria-endemic area
- Cyclical fevers with severe chills and sweating
- Signs of confusion, seizures, or difficulty breathing
- Dark or reduced urine output suggesting kidney involvement
Frequently Asked Questions
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