Description

Malaria is a life-threatening infectious disease caused by Plasmodium parasites and transmitted to humans through the bite of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. It mainly affects tropical and subtropical regions. According to the World Health Organization, malaria remains a major global health problem ⸻ Causative Organism Malaria is caused by five species of Plasmodium parasites that infect humans: 1. Plasmodium falciparum – Most dangerous; causes severe malaria and most deaths. 2. Plasmodium vivax – Common outside Africa; can relapse. 3. Plasmodium ovale 4. Plasmodium malariae 5. Plasmodium knowlesi – Found mainly in Southeast Asia. ⸻ Mode of Transmission Malaria spreads through: • Bite of an infected female Anopheles mosquito • Blood transfusion (rare) • Sharing contaminated needles • From mother to unborn baby (congenital malaria) It is not spread by casual contact like coughing or touching. ⸻ Signs and Symptoms Symptoms usually appear 10–15 days after infection: • High fever (often periodic) • Chills and shivering • Sweating • Headache • Muscle pain • Fatigue • Nausea and vomiting • Anemia • Enlarged spleen Severe Malaria (Medical Emergency) Mostly caused by P. falciparum: • Severe anemia • Organ failure • Seizures • Coma (cerebral malaria) • Death if untreated ⸻ Diagnosis Malaria is diagnosed by: • Microscopic examination of blood smear (gold standard) • Rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) • PCR (advanced method) ⸻ Treatment Treatment depends on the species and severity. ⸻ Prevention Personal Protection • Use insecticide-treated bed nets • Wear long-sleeved clothing • Apply mosquito repellents • Indoor residual spraying Vaccines ⸻ 9) Global Impact • Hundreds of millions of cases annually • Highest burden in Africa • Children under 5 and pregnant women are most at risk • Major cause of poverty and reduced productivity ⸻ 10) Complications If untreated, malaria can cause: • Brain damage • Kidney failure • Severe anemia • Respiratory distress • Death ⸻ 11) Risk Groups • Children under 5 years • Pregnant women • People with weakened immunity • Travelers to endemic regions