SYMPTOMS
Symptoms can range from mild to severe and can include:
Fever: A high fever is often the first symptom of malaria and may be accompanied by chills and sweats. Headaches: Severe headaches are a common symptom of malaria and may be accompanied by nausea and vomiting.
Muscle and joint pain: People with malaria often suffer from muscle and joint pain, which can be severe and debilitating. Fatigue: People with malaria often feel extremely tired and may find it difficult to carry out daily activities.
Anemia: Malaria can cause a reduction in the number of red blood cells in the body, leading to anemia. This can cause weakness, fatigue and shortness of breath.
Jaundice: In severe cases of malaria, the parasite can cause liver damage, leading to jaundice, which is characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes.
DIAGNOSIS
Left untreated, malaria can progress rapidly, leading to complications such as organ failure, seizures, and even death. It is important to see a doctor if you experience symptoms of malaria, especially if you have recently traveled to an area where the disease is endemic.
The diagnosis of malaria is usually made through a blood test, which can detect the presence of the malaria parasite in the bloodstream.
TREATMENT
Treatment usually involves drugs that kill the parasite, such as chloroquine, artemisinin-based combination therapies, and quinine. Prevention of malaria consists of avoiding mosquito bites, particularly in areas where the disease is endemic.
This can be done by using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and sleeping under bed nets. Additionally, travelers to areas where malaria is endemic may be advised to take medication to prevent the disease.
In short, malaria is a serious and deadly disease caused by a parasite that is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and can include fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, and fatigue. If left untreated, malaria can lead to serious complications, and prevention involves avoiding mosquito bites and taking medications to prevent the disease.
Regions with the Most Diagnosis of Malaria
Malaria is a disease most commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions of the world, particularly in areas with high levels of poverty and limited access to health care. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), sub-Saharan Africa bears the greatest burden of malaria, accounting for about 94% of global malaria cases and deaths in 2019. In addition to sub-Saharan Africa, other regions of the world where malaria is prevalent include:
Southeast Asia: particularly in countries such as India, Indonesia and Myanmar.
South and Central America: particularly in countries such as Brazil, Colombia and Peru.
Middle East: particularly in countries such as Afghanistan, Iran and Pakistan.
Within these regions, the risk of malaria transmission can vary depending on factors such as climate, geography and the prevalence of the disease in local populations. In some areas, the risk may be seasonal, with transmission occurring mainly during the rainy season when mosquito populations are highest. In other areas, the risk can be constant throughout the year.
It is important to note that while malaria is most commonly found in these regions, it can also occur in other parts of the world, particularly in areas where mosquito populations are high and access to healthcare is limited. If you plan to travel to an area where malaria is prevalent, it's important to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites and seek medical attention if you experience symptoms of the disease.
