Malaria
Every 30 seconds a child in Africa dies of malaria. The disease infects over 500 million people every year and kills well over a million. The majority of these deaths are children.
Pregnant women and the young are most at risk. Expectant mothers have lower immunity to the disease and once infected are more likely to suffer maternal death, miscarriages and stillbirths and to give birth to premature and low-weight babies.
Malaria is most prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa, but it can also be found in the Middle East, Asia, Latin America and some parts of Europe. It is transmitted by infected mosquitoes and is the world’s second biggest killer by infection.
Q&A
How is malaria contracted?
Malaria is caused by the Plasmodium parasite which is transmitted to humans via the bite of an affected mosquito. After entering the body the parasite quickly travels to the liver where it multiplies and enters the blood stream - though some parasites can lie dormant in the liver for years before becoming active. The infected blood cells then burst and infect other cells. This process depletes the body of vital oxygen.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms usually occur around 10-15 days after been bitten, though they can occur up to one year after. Symptoms are flu-like and include: fever, chills, headache, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath and tingling skin.
Is it fatal?
If not treated, malaria can quickly become life-threatening as it prevents adequate blood supply to the organs. It is treatable if diagnosed promptly, though those living in endemic areas are increasingly developing drug resistance.
Is there a vaccine for it?
At present there is no vaccine for malaria, though several are under development. Antimalarial drugs may be taken by short-term visitors to endemic regions, but these drugs are not designed for long-term use, due to associated side-effects. They also tend to be expensive.
Insecticidal nets and indoor residual spraying are the best preventative measures available. Research suggests that pregnant women in Africa are a third less likely to suffer miscarriage or stillbirth if they use mosquito nets. The nets are simple and efficient and cost around £2.50 (4 Euros).
Click here to buy a net today. Your donation can help save lives.
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