Post on 22-Dec-2015
Basics:
An infection caused by parasites
Female anopheles mosquitos act as vectors
They transfer this infection from one person to another
Majorly affected cells are RED BLOOD CELLS
Mostly seen in tropic and sub-tropic regions
Infection spreads during moist and humid times like rainy season
Types:
There are 5 types of malaria depending on the type of Plasmodium
1. P.falciparum
2. P.ovale
3. P.vivax
4. P.malariae
5. Plasmodium knowlesi (rare)
Causes:
DIRECT METHODS:
A mosquito bites an infected person and gets infected
This mosquito bites another uninfected person and transfers the infection
INDIRECT METHODS:
o Mother to fetus transmission
o Using infected needles
o Through blood transfusions
Other complications:
There are other complications caused because of MALARIA
BLACKWATER FEVER : release of haemoglobin into the urine
ANAEMIA : rupture of RED BLOOD CELLS
KIDNEY FAILURE : because of haemoglobin going through kidneys
Diagnosis:
Blood tests can show if you have been infected by malarial parasites and help in your treatment by determining
o Whether you have malaria
o What type of malaria
o If your vital organs have been affected by malaria
Prevention better than cure
USING NETS: bed nets especially those sprayed with insecticides are helpful
SPRAYING: spraying mosquito repellents or insecticides can keep mosquitos away
Sterile needles: making sure your doctor uses sterile needles
Cleanliness: keep your surroundings clean. Mosquitos wont breed there.
Facts about malaria
The CDC estimates that there are 300-500 million cases of malaria each year, and more than 1 million people die from it.
In some areas of the world, mosquitoes that carry malaria have developed resistance to insecticides.
Parasites have developed resistance to some antibiotics.
Malaria, especially Falciparum malaria, is a medical emergency that requires a hospital stay.