Malaria

Malaria

Symptoms of Malaria

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Malaria is a protozoal disease transmitted to humans by the bite of the Anopheles mosquito. It remains the major infectious disease problem in the world. Malaria is characterized by enlargement of the spleen, fever, anemia,and a chronic relapsing course. Today malaria survives best in areas of South and Central America, Africa, and Asia, where the mosquito and the infected human population co-exist. The incidence of the disease has decreased since 1945, due to an active international cooperative program aimed at its eradication.


Several types of the organism, Plasmodium vivax, P. malaria, and P.falciparum exist. The cycles between the muscle aching, headache, and fever vary from 48—72 hour periods. “Cerebral malaria” can lead to paralysis,convulsions, delirium, coma, and rapid death. “Black water fever” is a type of malaria associated with P. falciparum. Massive destruction (hemolysis) of red blood cells is followed by jaundice, kidney failure, and vascular collapse. The most important diagnostic test in the search for malaria parasites is the exami-nation of a stained blood drop under the microscope.

Life cycle of the parasite

Source:Wikipedia

Final cure of malaria is difficult, but mild cases often respond to the timely use of fever therapy. This is given as a rapid sweating steam or tub bath, bringing the body temperature up just as the chills begin, and before fever crests. The treatment should finish as usual with a cold mitten friction or a cool shower. Repeat this treatment on successive days if the chills return. Performed faithfully in conjunction with a simple diet, extra rest,and other hygienic measures, control can usually be obtained.Quinine was used historically; however, the development of more effective alternatives such as quinacrine, chloroquine, and primaquine in the 20th century reduced its use. Today, quinine is not generally used for prophylaxis. The use of prophylactic drugs where malaria-bearing mosquitoes are present may encourage the development of partial immunity.


The prevention of malaria involves primarily mosquito control, using netting, repellents, and the draining of swampy areas to reduce their breeding potential. Travelers or missionaries to countries where resistant malaria is endemic may want to take preventive medication for added protection.