MALARIA: PREVENTION AND SYMPTOMS

WHAT IS MALARIA AND HOW IS IT TRANSMITTED?

Malaria is a contagious disease caused by various species of a parasite known as Plasmodium. This type of parasite is an organism that relies on living within or on another living organism (host) for its survival and growth. In the case of malaria, the transmission of this parasite occurs through the bite of a female Anopheles mosquito that is infected with the Plasmodium parasite. Since male mosquitoes do not engage in biting, the transmission of the disease is solely associated with female mosquitoes.

When an infected Anopheles mosquito bites a human or animal, it introduces the Plasmodium parasite into the victim’s bloodstream. Within the bloodstream, the parasite undergoes multiplication, particularly within the red blood cells. After a certain period, the quantity of the parasite becomes substantial enough to cause the bursting of the red blood cells.

In rare instances, malaria can also be transmitted from expectant mothers to their newborn babies. Additionally, the disease can spread through the sharing of contaminated needles and during blood transfusions.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF MALARIA?

The emergence of malaria symptoms aligns with the proliferation of parasites and the subsequent breakdown of red blood cells, resulting in anemia. The specific symptoms vary depending on the Plasmodium species involved. Fever is typically the initial symptom, which may be accompanied by headache, muscle aches, fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, coughing, chills followed by cold sweats, and profuse sweating.

IS MALARIA CURABLE?

While the initial symptoms of malaria are often not overly alarming, they can quickly become serious. When malaria is diagnosed promptly, there is a very good chance of recovery. However, some Plasmodium species, including Plasmodium falciparum, which is more prevalent in Africa, can cause more serious infections, and sometimes even be fatal. Any person travelling in an area with malaria or who has visited such an area in the previous year should consult a doctor immediately if they are experiencing symptoms of malaria.

WHERE ARE PEOPLE MOST AT RISK OF CONTRACTING MALARIA?

Anopheles mosquitoes are prevalent in specific regions of the world, predominantly in tropical areas across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Sub-Saharan Africa, in particular, reports the highest malaria mortality rates.

The likelihood of contracting malaria fluctuates based on the geographical location you visit. Within the same country, risk factors can vary due to several factors. For instance, malaria transmission is infrequent at elevations exceeding 2,500 meters and is more prevalent during the rainy season as opposed to the dry season.

HOW CAN I PROTECT MYSELF AGAINST MALARIA?

There are medications available to reduce the risk of contracting malaria after being bitten by an infected mosquito. It is crucial to start taking these medications several days before entering high-risk areas and continue the regimen throughout your stay and for several days after leaving the area.

The choice of the appropriate preventive treatment depends on various factors, including the specific species of the Plasmodium parasite found in the region you are visiting, the season, your lodging location, the duration of your stay, and your personal characteristics. It is especially important for individuals at higher risk of complications, such as children, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems, to take preventive treatment when considering travel to malaria-endemic regions.

Since antimalarial drugs do not offer complete protection against malaria, it’s essential to also take precautions to prevent mosquito bites. This includes:

• Avoiding outdoor activities during peak mosquito activity hours, which are from dusk to dawn.
• Wearing long, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing with snug wrist sleeves, tucked-in shirts, and socks over pant hems.
• Applying insect repellent containing DEET or icaridin to exposed skin.
• Sleeping under a mosquito net treated with insecticide, ensuring it is tucked in under the mattress.
• Checking that door and window screens in your accommodations are intact.

It’s worth noting that trials are ongoing to test malaria vaccines in specific populations, but there is currently no preventive vaccine available for travelers.

YOUR PHARMACIST: YOUR GO-TO RESOURCE FOR TRAVEL HEALTH

Taking care of your health should be a fundamental part of your travel preparations.

Once you’ve selected your travel destination, it’s wise to consult with your pharmacist. They can evaluate your risk factors based on your travel plans and offer guidance on preventive treatments and necessary vaccinations.

Scheduling an appointment with your pharmacist or a travel health clinic well in advance of your departure is essential, particularly if your journey will lead you to remote or less-traveled areas. If you’re heading to a region where malaria is a concern, you’ll need to initiate your preventive drug treatment several days prior to your departure. Additionally, if you require vaccinations for other diseases, keep in mind that some vaccines may involve multiple doses given over several weeks, and it may take some time for their full protective effects to take effect.

In some provinces, pharmacists have the authority to prescribe medications for conditions related to travel, such as malaria, and can also provide or prescribe vaccines recommended for specific travel destinations. Be sure to inquire with your pharmacist about these services.