Malaria - causative agents, mode of transmission, symptoms, diagnosis, general principles of prevention and control, treatment

• Malaria is caused by Plasmodium parasites transmitted through the bites of infected mosquitoes. Symptoms include fever, chills, and vomiting.

Causative Agents:

• Malaria is caused by Plasmodium parasites.

• There are five species that can infect humans: Plasmodium falciparum, P. vivax, P. ovale, P. malariae, and P. knawels. P. falciparum is the deadliest.

Mode of Transmission:

• Transmitted to humans through the bite of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes.

Symptoms:

1. Fever, chills, and flu-like illness. If not treated, it can lead to severe complications and death.

2. Other symptoms include anemia, respiratory distress, and organ failure in severe cases.

Diagnosis:

• Blood tests are used to detect the presence of the parasite, including rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs), microscopic examination of blood smears, and PCR.

• Clinical diagnosis based on symptoms and a history of exposure.

General Principles of Prevention and Control:

General Principles of Prevention and Control of Malaria

1. Vector Control:

• The most effective way to prevent malaria is to control the mosquito population.

• This includes the use of insecticide-treated mosquito nets (ITNs) and indoor residual spraying (IRS) with insecticides to kill mosquitoes.

2. Chemoprophylaxis:

• Travelers to malaria-endemic areas may take preventive antimalarial drugs before, during, and after their trip to prevent infection.

3. Avoiding Mosquito Bites:

• Wearing long-sleeved clothing and pants, using insect repellent on exposed skin, and staying in screened or air-conditioned rooms can reduce the risk of mosquito bites.

4. Environmental Management:

• Reducing mosquito breeding sites by draining stagnant water and proper disposal of containers that can hold water can help control the mosquito population.

5. Community Participation and Education:

• Community involvement and education about malaria transmission, symptoms, and prevention methods are critical for effective control and prevention efforts.

6. Prompt Diagnosis and Treatment:

• Early diagnosis and treatment of malaria reduce disease severity and prevent deaths. Access to rapid diagnostic tests and effective antimalarial medications is essential.

Treatment

• Treatment depends on the type of Plasmodium parasite causing the infection, the severity of symptoms, and the patient’s location.

• Artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) are the most recommended treatment for P. falciparum malaria.

• Severe malaria is a medical emergency requiring hospitalization and intravenous medications.