Malaria
Malaria is an infectious disease caused by the Plasmodium parasite, and is spread by the Anopheles mosquito. The four species of Plasmodium that can infect humans are Plasmodium falciparum, Plasmodium vivax, Plasmodium ovale and Plasmodium malariae. The mosquito is the vector (carrier) and the human is the host (food source).
The Malaria Parasite Life Cycle
The malaria parasite requires both humans and mosquitoes in order to complete its life cycle. An infected mosquito bites someone, passing the Plasmodium parasite into his or her body, and the parasite then makes its way into the liver.
The Plasmodium parasite reproduces rapidly in the liver, after which multiple versions of it are released into the blood stream.
Plasmodium parasites then invade the red blood cells and reproduce further. The infected red blood cells eventually burst, releasing gametocytes (male and female cells) into the blood stream, ready to be taken up by the next mosquito that bites. The gametocytes fertilise each other in the mosquito's gut, and are then transferred into the next person the mosquito bites.
Malaria Symptoms
Many travellers contract malaria when visiting countries where the disease is present, and do not show symptoms until after they return home. Malaria symptoms include a flu-like illness and fever (among others), but if infected with Plasmodium falciparum, the effects can be far more serious and even fatal if medical treatment is not sought.
Malaria is a huge health problem, with around 500 million cases occurring worldwide every year. Of these, over one million people die (mostly young children in Sub-Saharan Africa).
Malaria Prevention
As it is mosquitoes that transmit malaria to humans, it is sensible to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites. These include using a good mosquito repellent, sleeping under an impregnated mosquito net, fitting insect window and door screens, and using insect room sprays, plug in mosquito killers and mosquito smoke coils.
It may also be advisable to take anti-malarial medicine (malaria prophylaxis) to help prevent malaria, such as chloroquine, for additional protection if visiting a malarial area. A doctor, pharmacist or travel clinic will be able to advise on suitable medication. Some anti-malarial tablets can only be obtained on prescription, whereas others can be bought over the counter.
Parts of the world where malaria is prevalent include areas of Africa, Asia, and Central and South America.
Malaria is curable with the appropriate malaria treatment.
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Malaria Symptoms
Malaria symptoms include a flu-like illness. Infection with the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum is most serious.
Malaria Prevention
Prevent malaria by protecting against mosquito bites. Sleep under a mosquito net, use insect repellent and take anti-malaria tablets.
Anti-Malaria Tablets
It is advisable to take anti-malaria tablets such as chloroquine or proguanil, when visiting a country where there is a risk of malaria infection.
Malaria Treatment
Malaria is easily treatable with tablets and a full recovery is likely. Severe infection may require hospitalisation.
Save the Children
Mosquito nets from Save the Children help prevent children in Africa dying needlessly from malaria.
Travel Health Insurance
When travelling abroad, it is important to have a travel insurance policy that covers health care in the event of accident or illness.