Malaria

Malaria is one of the world’s oldest and deadliest infectious diseases. Transmitted through the bite of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes, it affects millions of people each year—particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. Despite its prevalence, it is both preventable and curable when detected and treated early.

This blog delves deep into everything you need to know about malaria, including its causes, symptoms, risk factors, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Let’s understand how you can protect yourself and your family from this potentially life-threatening condition.

What is Malaria?

It is a parasitic disease caused by Plasmodium species. When an infected mosquito bites a person, the parasite enters the bloodstream and eventually reaches the liver, where it multiplies and causes systemic illness.

There are five species of Plasmodium known to cause malaria in humans:

1. Plasmodium falciparum – most severe form, common in Africa

2. Plasmodium vivax – most widespread outside Africa

3. Plasmodium ovale – found in West Africa

4. Plasmodium malariae – less common, can persist chronically

5. Plasmodium knowlesi – found in Southeast Asia, zoonotic

How is Malaria Transmitted?

It spreads primarily through the bite of an infected female Anopheles mosquito. These mosquitoes typically bite between dusk and dawn. Other rare modes of transmission include:

• Blood transfusions from infected donors

• Sharing contaminated needles or syringes

• From mother to baby during pregnancy or childbirth (congenital malaria)

Symptoms of Malaria

Symptoms typically begin 10 to 15 days after a mosquito bite. The presentation varies based on the type of Plasmodium involved and the person’s immunity.

6 Common Symptoms of Malaria

1. Fever – High-grade, recurring fever is the hallmark symptom

2. Chills – Intense shivering often accompanies fever

3. Fatigue – Weakness due to red blood cell destruction

4. Sweating – Profuse sweating, especially after fever spikes

5. Vomiting – Gastrointestinal disturbances in moderate to severe cases

6. Headache – Often severe and persistent

Other possible symptoms include:

• Body aches and muscle pain

• Diarrhea

• Jaundice (yellowing of eyes and skin)

• Rapid breathing and heart rate

In severe cases, malaria can lead to complications like:

• Cerebral malaria (brain involvement)

• Acute kidney failure

• Severe anemia

• Respiratory distress

• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)

• Multi-organ failure

Who is at Risk?

Certain individuals are at higher risk for severe malaria:

• Children under 5 years old

• Pregnant women

• Immunocompromised individuals

• Travelers from malaria-free zones visiting endemic areas

• People living in poverty without access to mosquito protection

Diagnosing Malaria

Early and accurate diagnosis is key to effective treatment.

1. Clinical Evaluation

Doctors will assess symptoms such as fever patterns, travel history to endemic areas, and physical findings like spleen enlargement.

2. Laboratory Tests

• Microscopy (Blood Smear) – The gold standard; allows identification of the species and parasite count

• Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs) – Useful in rural settings without lab infrastructure

• PCR Testing – Confirms diagnosis and species in complex cases

• Complete Blood Count (CBC) – May show anemia and low platelet count

• Liver and kidney function tests – To assess complications

Malaria Treatment

Treatment depends on the Plasmodium species, severity, and resistance patterns.

1. Antimalarial Medications

• Chloroquine – Used for sensitive strains

• Artemisinin-based Combination Therapies (ACTs) – First-line for P. falciparum

• Quinine/Quinidine – Used in severe or resistant malaria

• Primaquine – Effective against liver stages of P. vivax and P. ovale (to prevent relapses)

Note: Treatment regimens should always be prescribed by a medical professional based on diagnostic confirmation.

2. Supportive Care

• Fluids and electrolytes

• Blood transfusions in severe anemia

• Oxygen and ventilation support in respiratory distress

• Antipyretics (paracetamol) for fever control

Malaria in Children and Pregnant Women

Children:

• It progresses rapidly in young children

• May present as high fever, vomiting, and seizures

• Can cause permanent brain damage if untreated

Pregnant Women:

• More susceptible to infection due to lowered immunity

• Risks include miscarriage, premature birth, low birth weight, and maternal death

• WHO recommends intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy (IPTp) in endemic areas

Prevention: How to stay protected

The best way to tackle malaria is prevention:

1. Use Mosquito Nets

• Sleep under insecticide-treated bed nets (ITNs)

• Especially effective for children and pregnant women

2. Apply Mosquito Repellents

• Use creams or sprays containing DEET or picaridin

• Wear full-sleeve clothes to cover exposed skin

• Use mosquito coils or vaporisers indoors

3. Take Antimalarial Medicines (Chemoprophylaxis)

• Recommended for travelers to high-risk areas

• Common preventive medications include Mefloquine, Doxycycline, and Atovaquone-proguanil

• Must be taken before, during, and after travel

Additional Tips:

• Drain stagnant water near homes

• Install window screens

• Keep surroundings clean

• Avoid going out during peak mosquito hours (dusk to dawn)

Is Malaria Curable?

Yes, it is curable, especially when detected early. Most patients recover fully with appropriate treatment. However, severe or delayed cases may lead to long-term complications or death.

Malaria in India: A National Concern

India has made remarkable progress in malaria control, with the National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP) working towards malaria elimination by 2030. However, regions like West Bengal, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and the northeastern states still report significant numbers of cases annually.

Sparsh Diagnostic Centre’s Role in Malaria Diagnosis and Awareness

At Sparsh Diagnostic Centre, we are committed to early detection, awareness, and prevention of malaria. Our services include:

• Blood smear and RDT testing

• Comprehensive fever panels

• Travel consultations and prevention tips

• Access to trained medical staff and quick report turnaround

If you or a loved one has fever with chills, body aches, or has recently traveled to an endemic region, don’t delay testing.

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical attention immediately if you experience:

• Persistent or high-grade fever

• Shivering or chills

• Vomiting and body aches

• Signs of confusion or drowsiness

• Dark-colored urine or jaundice

Early diagnosis saves lives.

Myths and Facts About Malaria

Malaria remains a serious global health challenge but can be prevented and cured with the right knowledge and timely action. Understanding the symptoms, taking protective measures, and accessing diagnostics promptly can save lives. Whether you’re a resident of a malaria-endemic area or planning to travel to one, preparation is key.

Let’s work together to eliminate malaria—one mosquito net, one test, and one aware individual at a time.

Stay safe. Stay protected. Trust Sparsh Diagnostic Centre for accurate diagnosis and compassionate care.

📞 Call: 9830117733 / 8335049501
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Disclaimer:

No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.