Malaria, a preventable and treatable disease, affects around 3.3 billion people in 106 countries every year. India accounts for 2 million confirmed malaria cases and over 1,000 deaths annually. According to the World Malaria Report, 22 per cent of India’s population live in high transmission areas. Odisha contributes 25 per cent of the total of malaria cases in India every year.
However, in the last few years there has been a global progress in the malaria report. In 2016, malaria cases fell by 21 per cent and the death rates fell by 29 per cent. The World Health Organization targets to reduce malaria cases by 40 per cent in the next few years.
Today, on World Malaria Day (25 April), we would like to apprise you about the cause, symptoms, prevention and treatment of the disease.
Cause and spread of malaria
The female Anopheles mosquito carries the Plasmodium Parasite which causes malaria. An Anopheles bite transfers the parasite into your blood stream, which spreads and fertilises in the red blood cells. These cells multiply rapidly and bursts into your blood stream releasing more parasites in your blood.
Initial signs
After 48-72 hours of the cell burst, initial symptoms start to appear and you experience fever, chills and generic symptoms such as vomiting. Although to be particularly sure, one must get a blood test done. Sometimes the parasite doesn’t show up in blood tests initially, so repeated tests are advisable.
Some of the common symptoms to look out for
- Headache
- Fever
- Excessive sweating
- Nausea
- Increase in heart rate
- Fatigue
Prevention
- Anti-malarial tablets prevents ‘falciparum malaria’ which is responsible for majority of cases in the country
- Bed nets should be used. Nets can be acquired from government centres for free
- There are several mosquito repellents in the market that provide protection from mosquitoes
- Loose and long-sleeve clothing to cover up your body when you are outdoors
- Take a stock of the potential breeding sites around your home. Water accumulation should be prevented
RemedyCommon drugs used for the treatment of malaria includes Chloroquine, Mefloquine, Quinine Sulphate, which can be acquired from a chemist with authorised prescription from the doctor. World Health Organization approved Artemisinin Combination Therapy (ACT), in public hospitals and clinics for free to everyone. This is a fast acting combination for the treatment of malaria.
