# Understanding Malaria – Vector-Borne Disease That Causes Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
Malaria is a serious and potentially fatal disease caused by the Plasmodium parasite, which is transmitted to humans by infected mosquitos. Every year, millions of people are affected by this disease, which is most prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there were an estimated 229 million malaria cases worldwide in 2019, with malaria accounting for approximately 409,000 deaths.
## Symptoms of Malaria
Malaria symptoms can vary from person to person and may include the following:
– High fever
– Chills
– Sweats
– Headache
– Nausea and vomiting
– Body aches
– Fatigue
– Diarrhea
In some cases, severe complications may arise, such as:
– Anemia
– Cerebral malaria (seizures, coma, or other neurological problems)
– Kidney failure
– Respiratory distress
– Pulmonary edema
## Diagnosis of Malaria
If you suspect you have malaria, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Your healthcare provider will inquire about your symptoms, medical history, and recent travel to malaria-endemic areas. Blood tests may also be ordered to confirm the diagnosis.
## Treatment of Malaria
Malaria is typically treated with antimalarial drugs that target the Plasmodium parasite. The type of medication used and the length of treatment will be determined by the severity of the infection and the Plasmodium parasite that is causing it. For severe cases of malaria, hospitalization may be required.
## Prevention of Malaria
Preventing malaria requires reducing your exposure to mosquito bites. This can be accomplished by:
– Using insect repellent on exposed skin and clothing
– Wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants
– Sleeping under mosquito nets
– Using air conditioning or fans to keep mosquitoes away
– Removing standing water around your home to prevent mosquito breeding
If you are traveling to an area where malaria is prevalent, you should also take antimalarial medications prescribed by your healthcare provider.
## Conclusion
Malaria is a serious disease that affects millions of people worldwide, but it can be avoided and treated. Seek medical attention right away if you suspect you have malaria. Remember to take precautions to reduce your risk of mosquito bites, especially if you are visiting an area where malaria is prevalent. Malaria can be eliminated and its global burden reduced with proper prevention and treatment.