Introduction to Malaria
it is caused by Plasmodium parasites by infected Anopheles mosquitoes, called “malaria vectors.” There are 5 parasite species that cause malaria in humans.
How is it caused?
Transmission occurs by the following ways-
- sharing of needles with contaminated blood
- congenital (mother passes the infection to her unborn baby)
- Blood transfusion (infected blood)
Once the parasites are inside your body, they travel to the liver, and enter blood stream. After multiplying, they cause infected cells to open and therefore cause symptoms.
Clinical Presentation
symptoms appear 10–15 days after the Bite of the infected mosquito.
- Initial symptons are fever, headache, and also chills
Children may develop anemia, respiratory issues, cerebral malaria.
Prevention of malaria-
Vector control is the main way for prevention.
It can be done in two ways. Usage of insecticidal sprays and also use of mosquito nets proves beneficial.
Vaccines for malaria-
RTS,S/AS01 (RTS,S) is for life threatening malaria/cerebral malaria.
Prevention –
Chances of developing malaria can be reduced with preventing cases and also by vector control. Some measures include-
one should always wear long sleeves and pants during dusk in Malarious regions
sleep under impregnated bed nets- The nets are made out of either cotton, polyethylene, or polypropylene and are impregnated with the insecticide, thus help to kill malarial parasites.
Also read – https://vcurehealthcare.com/tia-transient-ischemic-attack-vs-stroke/
