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Through the bite of a female Anopheles mosquito carrying the parasite that causes malaria, people can get this potentially fatal illness. Common in tropical and sub-tropical countries, malaria continues to be a significant health issue despite being treatable. Let’s take a look at the causes, symptoms, types and preventive measures associated with malaria disease in this blog.
Synopsis
5 Types of Malaria Causing Parasites
Malaria is caused by plasmodium parasites. There are 5 species of malaria-causing plasmodium parasites:
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plasmodium falciparum
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plasmodium vivax
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plasmodium ovale
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plasmodium malariae
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plasmodium knowlesi
Plasmodium falciparum is the deadliest among these and responsible for the majority of malaria-related deaths worldwide. Upon entering the body, the parasites travel to the liver where they mature. After maturing, the parasites enter the bloodstream and infect red blood cells and within 48-72 hours the parasites inside the red blood cells multiply causing the cells to burst open.
Symptoms of Malaria
A human becomes symptomatic between 10-14 days to several weeks after being bitten by an infected mosquito. Doctors divide symptoms into 2 categories uncomplicated and severe malaria. Uncomplicated malaria is a condition when a person has symptoms but shows no sign of severe infection or dysfunction of vital organs. Uncomplicated malaria symptoms resemble those of flu and can typically last 6-10 hours recurring every 10 days. Overall symptoms include body aches, sweating, fever, chills, weakness, an enlarged liver, mild jaundice, nausea and vomiting.
Severe malaria is a life-threatening medical emergency which affects vital organs. It is a condition in which 5% of red blood cells have been affected by malaria parasites. Symptoms include blood in urine, high acidity in blood and body fluids, coma, seizures, changes in behaviour, severe anaemia, changes in blood clotting, and impaired consciousness. Consult our best internal medicine doctor in Delhi for the ideal treatment to these symptoms.
5 Types of Malaria and their Treatments
Malaria is caused by parasites of the genus plasmodium and there are 5 species of plasmodium that can infect humans. The type of malaria depends upon the species of parasite that caused the infection, and treatment is tailored to specific plasmodium species involved and the severity of the disease. Following are the 5 types and their malaria treatment:
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Plasmodium falciparum malaria: It is the deadliest form of malaria, common in sub–Saharan Africa. Symptoms can include anaemia, high fever, chills and cerebral malaria which can cause coma or even death. Treatment for uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria includes medications that are aimed at reducing the likelihood of resistance and ensuring that the parasite is fully eradicated. Immediate medical attention is required in this case, so that the doctor can monitor the improvement and modify the treatment if there is a need.
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Plasmodium vivax malaria: Found in Asia and Latin America, this species has the unique ability to stay dormant in the liver for months or even years leading to infections that can activate months or years after initial infection. Common symptoms include headache, muscle aches, chills and fever. Treatment for uncomplicated P. vivax malaria includes medicines to eliminate dormant liver stages and prevent relapses.
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Plasmodium ovale malaria: Plasmodium ovale malaria is a less severe and less frequent type of disease. Primarily found in West Africa and some Pacific islands, it possesses the capability to stay dormant in the liver and cause relapse similar to P. vivax malaria. Symptoms may include fatigue, chills and mild to moderate fever. Treatment for P. ovale malaria is similar to P. vivax malaria.
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Plasmodium malariae malaria: Like the other types, P. malariae malaria is found worldwide but is less common than other types. It is of a chronic nature and can lead to several long-term health issues and complications like chronic infections that can last for many years if not treated. P. malariae can cause a serious kidney condition called nephrotic syndrome. This type of malaria has mild symptoms which may include fever, chills and malaise.
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Plasmodium knowlesi malaria: P. knowlesi malaria is a zoonotic malaria that primarily affects monkeys but can also affect humans. Found in southeast Asia, it can cause severe illness similar to P. falciparum. It is often misdiagnosed as P. malariae due to its similar appearance under the microscope. The symptoms include abdominal pain, chills, and high fever. Treatment for uncomplicated cases includes medication.
As the saying goes “Prevention is better than cure,” taking all necessary precautionary actions becomes important for reducing the risk of malaria. Following are a few precautions:
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Indoor residual spraying (IRS): Insecticides sprayed on walls and ceilings can kill mosquitoes living within the house that come into contact with treated surfaces.
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Use of insecticide-treated bed nets (ITNs): ITNs can significantly reduce the risk of mosquito bites as these nets are treated with insecticides that kill or repel mosquitoes. Sleeping under ITNs does not only directly protect you from mosquito bites but also kills most of the mosquitoes without the use of harmful anti-mosquito spray.
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Anti-malarial medications: Antimalarial medications prevent the development of malaria in people who are exposed to parasites. Recommended for people travelling to high-risk areas and to people living in endemic regions. Consult our expert doctors in Delhi, to know more about these medications and the best ways to consume them.
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Wearing protective clothing: Wearing long-sleeved clothes provides protection against otherwise exposed skin, particularly during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
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Keeping a clean environment and surroundings: Several key steps include eliminating standing water where mosquitoes lay eggs, such as in pools, puddles, and containers.
Malaria remains a major global health challenge causing significant impact on health, economies, and societies. Understanding causes of malaria, and types, taking preventive measures and recognizing symptoms are crucial for identifying the type of malaria and taking effective treatment. Book a consultation at our best infectious disease hospital in Delhi to discuss your problem. Check out our blog page for the latest medical updates.
FAQ's
Malaria is diagnosed through Rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) a blood test that identifies the presence of Plasmodium parasites. Microscopy is another commonly used method.
Common symptoms include fever, chills, headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle pain, and fatigue. In severe cases, it can cause jaundice, seizures, confusion, and difficulty breathing.
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