Malaria remains one of the world’s most serious and potentially deadly infectious diseases, despite being both preventable and curable when treated early. Transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes, the illness begins with flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, and headaches but can rapidly progress into a life-threatening condition if left untreated.
Health experts warn that without prompt medical attention, malaria can lead to severe complications including organ failure and death. Yet, with the right preventive measures and timely treatment, the disease can be effectively controlled.
Causes and Transmission
Malaria is caused by Plasmodium parasites, which are most commonly spread through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. Once in the body, the parasites travel to the liver, where they multiply before entering the bloodstream and infecting red blood cells.
In addition to mosquito bites, malaria can also be transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy or through contaminated blood transfusions, although these cases are less common.
Symptoms and Disease Progression
The early signs of malaria often resemble those of common viral infections. Patients may experience high fever, chills, headaches, fatigue, muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. These symptoms typically appear between 10 and 15 days after infection, though in some cases onset may take longer.
If untreated, the disease can worsen into what is known as severe or complicated malaria. This stage may involve jaundice, seizures, coma, difficulty breathing, severe anemia, kidney failure, and can ultimately be fatal.
Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
Malaria is diagnosed through laboratory blood tests that detect the presence of parasites. Once confirmed, treatment must begin immediately.
The disease is treated with antimalarial medications, most commonly artemisinin-based combination therapies. When administered early, these drugs are highly effective and can completely cure the infection.
Prevention remains a critical tool in reducing malaria cases. Measures include sleeping under insecticide-treated mosquito nets, using repellents, wearing protective clothing, and taking preventive medications, especially for travelers visiting high-risk areas. Vaccines have also been introduced and are recommended for children in regions where malaria is widespread.
Global Risk and Impact
Malaria is most prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, accounting for hundreds of millions of infections each year. Travelers from malaria-free countries are particularly vulnerable due to a lack of natural immunity.
Despite significant progress in recent years, malaria continues to pose a major global health challenge. Public health officials stress that sustained prevention efforts, early diagnosis, and access to treatment are essential to saving lives and reducing the burden of the disease.
