Malaria is a disease that can range from the mildest form to a life threatening form caused by parasites transmitted through the bites of infected mosquitoes.
Despite significant progress and breakthroughs in malaria research, it still remains a serious global health challenge posing significant risk especially in the Global South. According to the World Health Organization, there were an estimated 282 million malaria cases and 610 000 malaria deaths globally in 2024. The WHO African Region continues to shoulder the heaviest burden, comprising 94% of malaria cases and 95% of malaria deaths annually. It is therefore important to be informed about this disease.
How is Malaria Transmitted
Malaria cannot spread directly from person to person like a cold or some sort of contagious cough, rather, it relies on a parasite and a vector.
The primary vector is the female Anopheles mosquito which when infected, can transmit the parasite to humans through its bite. These mosquitoes typically bite between dusk and dawn.
When the mosquito bites, it injects the Plasmodium parasites into the bloodstream which travel to the liver, mature and then infect your red blood cells eventually giving you symptoms.
What are the symptoms of Malaria
Common and uncomplicated symptoms include
- Fever
- Chills and Shivering
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Nausea and Vomiting
- Muscle aches
It can also present or progress to severe symptoms including but not limited to impaired consciousness, seizures, difficulty breathing and yellow eyes typically referred to by the medical community as Jaundice. Pregnant women and Children under 5 years are the most-at-risk group for complications of malaria.
How can Malaria be Prevented
- Sleeping under long-lasting insecticide-treated nets
- Indoor spraying using an insecticide spray. Spray and stay out of the room for at least 30 minutes before you re-enter.
- Environmental management like draining any standing water in puddles, old tires and open containers where mosquitoes can lay their eggs.
- Malaria vaccines, which are currently being rolled out across sub-saharan Africa, significantly reducing severe malaria in children.
- Prophylaxis for travelers. People traveling to malaria-endemic regions should take specific antimalarial drugs before, during and after the trip.
- Personal protection, including wearing long sleeved clothing and trousers when sitting outside in the evenings, using insect repellents and avoiding long hours sitting outside in the evening.