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

akula134
2 min read

  • 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
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.


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