Malaria

Malaria

The early Egyptians wrote about it on papyrus, and the famous Greek physician Hippocrates described it in detail. It devastated invaders of the Roman Empire. In ancient Rome, as in other temperate climates, malaria lurked in marshes and swamps. People blamed the unhealthiness in these areas on rot and decay that wafted out on the foul air. Hence, the name is derived from the Italian, “mal aria,” or bad air. In 1880, the French scientist Alphonse Laveran discovered the real cause of malaria, the single-celled Plasmodium parasite. Almost 20 years later, scientists working in India and Italy discovered that Anopheles mosquitoes are responsible for transmitting malaria. 

There are four main strains of malaria. The most serious of these is the falciparum. This form can be fatal.The other three forms, vivax, ovale and malariae are usually less serious, but still need to be prevented and treated promptly.

Once a malaria mosquito has bitten, parasites travel to the liver and can lay there dormant, or can start to rapidly multiply. Eventually the parasites multiply so much that the liver cells they have invaded bursts and releases them into the blood stream. Once in the blood stream they attack the red blood cells. By the time the parasites are in the blood stream the traveler may start to experience the symptoms of malaria, which includes high fever and chills.

Two of the strains of malaria,Vivax and Ovale do not produce the symptoms of malaria for some months, which is why it is important to have a blood test for malaria if you develop fevers months after travel.

There are complications associated with malaria that may lead to coma and death. The average traveler should seek medical attention in the event of feeling unwell.

Full recovery can be expected from malaria in persons who seek medical attention in the early stages of malaria.

The symptoms of malaria can be varied. Usually the symptoms include high fever, chills, headache, feeling unwell, muscle aches and cramps.

“The best cure is prevention.”

It is important to note that swapping and changing anti malarial drug is NOT recommended. Once a course of anti malarial drugs is started it should be taken until it is completed.

How do I avoid mosquitos in general?
1. The use of an insect repellant containing DEET, such as RID
2. Avoiding the outdoors between dawn and dusk
3. Wearing long, light colored, loose clothing, as dark colors attract mosquito’s
4. Avoid wearing any strong perfume
5. If accommodation consists of backpacker or hostel or tent, the use of a mosquito net impregnated with permethrin.
6. Washing clothes in permethrin solution prior to travel. 

What are the types of Anti-malarial medication?

There are 5 types of anti malarial medication that are in treatment. It is important to note that None of the anti malarial drugs are 100% effective in preventing malaria.