World Malaria Day
April, the 25th was chosen for the purpose of celebrating World Malaria day annually. It was selected to raise awareness about the disease malaria; preventive and control measures and how it can be eradicated completely. The first Malaria day was celebrated in 2008 which stemmed out from the Africa Malaria Day, an event observed by the African governments since the year 2001. It is safe to assume everyone knows what malaria is, nevertheless, we will delve in a bit into malaria-verse!
Malaria is a life-threatening disease which is transmitted to humans by the female Anopheles mosquito. Once a person is bitten by an infected mosquito, the parasite multiplies in the hosts’ body. Early diagnosis aids in treating and controlling of the disease before it escalates to a dangerous stage. Doctors have classified malaria symptoms into two; uncomplicated and severe malaria. Uncomplicated malaria occurs when the symptoms suggests no dysfunction of vital organs like the liver and lasts for about 6-10 hours. This form can transform to severe malaria in absence of proper health care or if the infected person has a poor or no immunity. In severe malaria, laboratory or clinical evidence shows signs of vital organ dysfunction.
Malaria symptoms are quite similar to flu, therefore, to leave nothing to one’s imaginations, find below symptoms of malaria;
- Sensation of cold with shivering
- Headaches, fever and vomiting
- In younger people there may be seizures in some cases
- Sweating, followed by a return of normal body temperature and tiredness
- Impaired consciousness, abnormal bleeding and signs of anemia
- Deep breathing and respiration distress among others.
Treatment purpose is to eliminate the parasite from the blood stream. Early diagnosis and treatment is key towards preventing a fatal outcome. The use of mosquito nets, good sanitation, insecticides and in some countries vaccines, are measures taken to prevent its occurrence. We hope this was helpful and you’re more equipped to keep this disease at bay! Happy World Malaria Day!