What Treatment is Available for Malaria?

Discussion Malaria is a life-threatening yet preventable and curable disease caused by parasites. In humans, there are 4 species that cause malaria: Plasmodium falciparum, Plasmodium vivax, Plasmodium malariae,and Plasmodium ovale. Plasmodium falciparum is the most deadly and Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax are the most common. Plasmodium parasites are transmitted by bites from Anopheles mosquitoes from an infected human. The incubation period is 7-30 days. In 2012, it is estimated to have caused 627,000 deaths mostly among African children. Mortality rates have been decreasing but children, pregnant women, people with HIV/AIDs and immigrants and international travelers from non-endemic areas are most at risk. At risk is ~50% of the world’s population with ongoing transmission in 97 countries especially in sub-Saharan Africa, but also Asia, Latin America, the Middle East and Europe. Prevention is key. Insecticidal spraying and especially consistent use of long-lasting insecticidal mosquito nets are important strategies. There are problems with use of the nets including general wear. The World Health Organization is beginning research to evaluate real-world use of mosquito nets and potential strategies to increase their use and longevity. A vaccine is also being evaluated in clinical trials. Malaria is usually categorized into uncomplicated or severe disease. People with uncomplicated malaria usually will have fever, chills, sweats, headaches, body aches, na...
Source: PediatricEducation.org - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: Uncategorized Source Type: news