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A Guide to Everything You Need to Know about Malaria

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When you think of the most dangerous creature on the face of the earth, what image comes to your mind? Is it a lion, a shark, or a crocodile? Think smaller! If you look at the diseases that mosquito bites can cause, you might believe that this insect is man’s biggest nemesis ever. And you wouldn’t be wrong. Mosquitoes breed fast and are quite capable of transmitting a number of different viruses. Malaria is one such life-threatening ailment caused by mosquitoes. Let’s discuss the symptoms of malaria and what its treatment is. But more importantly, let’s focus on how you can prevent it and keep your loved ones safe. Make sure to get a good health insurance policy as well, so that in case of hospitalisation, your savings remain intact.

What is malaria?

Malariais amosquito-borne disease. It is a serious and sometimes fatal disease which is caused by the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito. When this infected mosquito, which carries the Plasmodium parasite, bites you, it releases the parasite into your bloodstream. Malaria is treatable and curable though. However, if left untreated, it can cause serious health problems such as brain damage, seizures, breathing issues, organ failure and even death.

Who might get malaria?

Anyone can get malaria but the most vulnerable are those with little or no immunity such as children, older people and pregnant women. Those living in Africa are at a higher risk of getting infected than others because the weather conditions there are conducive for high transmission. More than 90% of deaths due to malaria is in Africa and most of them are young children. People from countries with no malaria can get infected by travelling to high-risk countries as well.

What causes malaria?

Malariais causedby Plasmodium parasites, which are transmitted to humans through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. Only Anopheles mosquitoes can transmit malaria.When the infected mosquito bites you, the parasite is transferred into your bloodstream where they multiply.

Malaria can also be transmitted through organ transplant, blood transfusion, or from used needles which have been contaminated with blood. A mother can also pass on malaria to her unborn child either before or during birth. However, such cases are rare.

What are the symptoms of malaria?

Symptoms usually show up after 10 days to 1 month ofbeing infected with malaria.The common signs and symptoms are fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, fatigue, cough, chest pain and breathing problems. If not treated on time, malaria can become severe and cause anaemia, jaundice, kidney failure, seizures, etc.

How is malaria diagnosed?

If you show any symptoms of malaria, your doctor will recommend blood tests to confirm the diagnosis. The tests will show if you have malaria, the type of parasite that is causing malaria, whether the disease has caused anaemia, etc. This will help your doctor prescribe the right treatment.

How is malaria treated?

Malaria is treated with anti-malarial drugs, but the treatment should start early on. The type and course of medication depends on the type of malaria, age, whether the infected person is pregnant and the severity of the disease. The cost of treatment, which includes doctor visits and medications, can be high. Which is why, having health insurance is essential.

What are the side effects of medications to treat malaria?

Some of the side effects of anti-malarial drugs are headaches, seizures, Tinnitus (ringing in the ears), increased sensitivity to sunlight, nausea, diarrhoea, vision problems, psychological disorders, insomnia, etc. Inform your practitioner if you are on any other medication as they can interfere with anti-malarial medications.

Can you prevent malaria?

Yes, malaria can be prevented. If you live or need to travel to a place where malaria is common, consult your doctor about the medications and precautions that you need to take to prevent it. You may have to take medications before, during and after the travel. Some of the precautions to avoid mosquito bites are:

• Use mosquito nets at night while sleeping.

• Apply mosquito repellent on parts of your body which are exposed.

• Install nets/screens on doors and windows. If there are no nets, close the doors and windows before dusk.

• Cover yourself with long pants and full sleeves as much as possible.

What is the outlook for people who have malaria?

If you have recently travelled to a malaria-prone area or feel you have the symptoms, it is important to consult your doctor immediately. Treating early with the right medication will clear the infection from your body. If not treated on time or properly, it can lead to serious health issues and can also be fatal.

When should you see your healthcare provider about malaria?

If you get any signs and symptoms of malaria, seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital to ensure you recover early. This will also stop the infection from getting transmitted to others.

Conclusion

Malaria can be a life-threatening disease, but you can always take precautions to prevent it. If you are infected, timely treatment is vital, otherwise it can cause severe health issues and even death. Protect yourself from mosquito bites by taking all precautions and stay safe. Also don’t forget to buy health insurance that will provide financial protection in case of a medical emergency.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purpose only. For more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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