What is Malaria? Malaria is the red blood cell infection caused by a parasite protozoa called Plasmodium . This disease was first discovered by an Italian, Dr. Francisco Torti. This disease affected tropical as well as non-tropical countries. However, it was mostly eliminated from non-tropical countries during the 20 th century. Malaria spreads person to person by the bite of a female mosquito. The mosquito bites an infected person and transfers the protozoa into the blood of a healthy person during a meal. Plasmodium malariae: P. malariae causes the least number of infections worldwide. It commonly causes infections in South and Central America, Africa and South East Asia. An infection with P. malariae causes high grade fever and chills. Causes of Malaria Malaria is spread from an infected person to a healthy person by a bite of the Anopheles mosquito. The female Anopheles mosquito spreads the parasite during a meal through her saliva. The sporozoites then travels to through the blood towards the liver. Here, they mature and enter the bloodstream as merozites. They invade the red blood cells and continue to multiply. After about 24 to 72 hours, the cell lysis and releases more of the parasites into the blood. It is at this point, when the infected person starts showing signs of infection. Also, if a mosquito bites the person during this stage, it can pass the parasites to another healthy person. Other modes of transmission of malaria parasite include from mother to her unborn baby, blood transfusion, organ transfusion as well as sharing infected, used needles, that is injections. Symptoms of Malaria Malaria symptoms are very easy to spot as they are typical of the disease. Some of these symptoms include: High fever Fall in body temperature Severe chills with shaking followed by episodes of fever and sweating Anemia Body aches Nausea Sweating Convulsions Bloody stools Vomiting Arthralgia Enlarged spleen Mild jaundice Treatment for Malaria Malaria treatment requires hospitalization, especially in case of infection by P. flaciparum. Prevention of Malaria It is very important to protect oneself and their family from malaria. Those living in malaria prone regions, should make sure they follow certain precautions. Some of these precautions are as follows: Use an effective mosquito repellent cream that keeps away mosquitoes Wear long sleeves and cover your legs, especially at night Make sure windows and doors are screened to prevent entry of mosquitoes into the house Use a bed net while sleeping to prevent mosquito bites when sleeping Spray homes and surrounding areas with insecticide to kill mosquitoes Clear shrubs and other weeds around the house that helps mosquitoes hide. Do not allow stagnant water around the house to percolate as it helps breed mosquitoes Keep in mind, malaria is one of the major causes of millions of deaths around the world. When left untreated, it could lead to many complications that include dengue, paralysis, coma and death. Keep yourself, your family and your community safe. Get rid of mosquitoes by keeping your surroundings clean. Those travelling to malaria prone areas should follow all steps required to prevent an infection. One step to prevent the disease will help keep one away from the dangers of malaria.
Posted on: Sat, 29 Jun 2013 07:26:46 +0000
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