Malaria

What are the causes of malaria?

Malaria is caused by a single-celled parasite from the Plasmodium genus, primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Here's how the malaria transmission cycle works:

Malaria Transmission Cycle

1. Infected Mosquito Bite: A mosquito becomes infected after feeding on a person with malaria.

2. Parasite Transmission: When this mosquito bites another person, it transmits malaria parasites into their bloodstream.

3. Liver Stage: The parasites travel to the liver, where they may lie dormant for up to a year.

4. Bloodstream Stage: Once the parasites mature, they leave the liver and infect red blood cells, triggering symptoms of malaria.

5. Spread to Others: If another mosquito bites the infected person, it picks up the parasites and can transmit them to others.

Other Modes of Transmission

Malaria can also spread through direct exposure to infected blood, including:

• From mother to unborn child.
• Through blood transfusions.
• By sharing needles for drug use.

Understanding this transmission cycle highlights the importance of preventive measures and early treatment to break the chain of infection.

What are the symptoms of malaria?

Malaria is a disease often characterized by fever, chills, and headaches. While some individuals may experience mild or no symptoms, others can face severe or life-threatening complications.

Types of Malaria Symptoms

Doctors classify malaria symptoms into two categories: uncomplicated malaria and severe malaria.

Uncomplicated Malaria

This occurs when symptoms are present, but vital organs remain unaffected. Without treatment, it can progress to severe malaria, especially in individuals with low immunity. Symptoms typically last 6–10 hours and may recur every second day, although some parasite strains can cause a longer or mixed cycle.

Common Symptoms Include:

• Fever and chills
• Sweating
• Headaches
• Nausea and vomiting
• Body aches and weakness
• Enlarged liver or mild jaundice (yellowing of the eyes)
• Increased breathing rate
• General fatigue or feeling unwell

Fever Cycle:

The classic malaria fever cycle consists of the following:

• Chills and shivering.
• High fever, headaches, and vomiting (seizures may occur in young children).
• Sweating and a drop in fever, followed by fatigue.

While this fever cycle is rare, some Plasmodium species may cause recurring fever every third day.

Severe Malaria

Severe malaria develops when parasites infect more than 5% of red blood cells, causing organ dysfunction. This is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention.

Symptoms Include:

• Severe anemia
• Blood in urine
• Impaired consciousness or behavioural changes
• Seizures or coma
• High acidity in blood and fluids
• Blood clotting issues

Complications of Malaria

If untreated, malaria can result in:

• Liver failure, leading to jaundice
• Kidney failure
• Low blood glucose levels
• Splenic rupture or swelling
• Pulmonary oedema (fluid in the lungs)
• Acute respiratory distress syndrome (breathing difficulties)
• Dehydration
• Shock due to a sudden drop in blood pressure

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to managing malaria and preventing severe complications.

When to see a doctor

Consult your doctor if you develop a fever while living in or after visiting a high-risk malaria area. For severe symptoms, seek emergency medical care immediately.