Malaria Unraveled: Treatments and Preventions
Plasmodium, the parasite that causes malaria, is a serious global health problem, especially in subtropical and tropical regions. Malaria is transmitted by Anopheles infected mosquitoes and causes hundreds of thousands deaths each year. Children under the age of five are the most susceptible group. This article examines the complex nature of malaria by examining its symptoms, causes, treatments and expert opinion. It also offers natural prevention or treatment tips.
Malaria Statistics: An Overview
Malaria is more than a disease; it's an epidemic which requires urgent attention. WHO estimates that there will be approximately 229 millions cases of malaria in 2019 resulting in 409,000 deaths. Sub-Saharan Africa is the region with the highest burden of malaria, and accounts for 94% all cases and deaths. The majority of malaria-related deaths occur in children under the age of five. This accounts for approximately 67% .
Malaria: The Common Causes
The Plasmodium malaria parasite is the main cause of the disease. It is spread to humans by female Anopheles infected mosquitoes. Five species of Plasmodium can cause malaria among humans.
- Plasmodium falciparum
- Plasmodium vivax
- Plasmodium ovale
- Plasmodium malariae
- Plasmodium Knowlesi
Plasmodium flavirum and Plasmodium vixax, are among the deadliest, falciparum being the cause of the vast majority (90%) deaths worldwide due to malaria.
Malaria Treatments
Antimalarial medications are usually used to treat malaria. Treatment depends on Plasmodium species, severity of symptoms and overall health of the patient.
- Chloroquine (or Hydroxychloroquine)
- Quinine combined with Doxycycline
- Mefloquine
- Combination therapies based on artemisinin
WHO reports that ACTs are a highly effective treatment for P. falciparum, and have contributed significantly to reducing global mortality rates from malaria.
Experts' Opinions about Malaria
While significant progress has been made to control malaria, experts agree that more work needs to be accomplished. The Director of WHO’s Global Malaria Programme Dr. Pedro Alonso said, “We need to step up our efforts to identify and treat every malaria patient as soon as possible.”
A malaria vaccine is being developed. In clinical trials , the RTS,S/AS01, also known as Mosquirix, has offered partial protection from malaria to young children.
Prevention and Natural Remedies
Although there are no cures for malaria, some practices can prevent the disease. Some of these include:
- Using insect repellent
- Do not sleep under nets treated with insecticide
- When outdoors, wear long sleeves at night
- Using indoor insecticides
- Keep your eyes peeled, especially at night
The greatest impact of malaria is in sub-Saharan Africa. Plasmodium parasites cause the disease, which is transmitted by mosquitoes infected with Anopheles. Although there are treatments that have proven to be effective, the best defense is prevention. It is hoped, as research continues into malaria, that better treatments and prevention measures will be found. The comprehensive review of malaria highlights the need for continued effort to eliminate and control this disease.
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