04/27/2022
National Malaria Day was 25/4/22
Per the World Health Organization, Malaria is an acute febrile illness caused by Plasmodium parasites, which are spread to people through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. There are 5 parasite species that cause malaria in humans, and 2 of these species – P. falciparum and P. vivax – pose the greatest threat. P. falciparum is the deadliest malaria parasite and the most prevalent on the African continent. P. vivax is the dominant malaria parasite in most countries outside of sub-Saharan Africa.
Short definition: a common illness given to humans by parasitic female mosquitos.
Symptoms include, but are not limited to;
Fever
Flu-like symptoms
Body shakes
Headaches
Muscle aches
Fatigue
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Symptoms begin often time 10 - 28 days after being bitten. So this parasite can longer in the body attacking your res blood cells.
Be very careful also if you are new to the Ghanaian climate you will experience many of these same symptoms during Hamataan, also known as dry season.
So in any event if you are feeling these symptoms, make sure it is not Malaria. Stop at your local pharmacy for a quick and easy 15 minute Malaria test.
How can Malaria affect pregnancy?
Malaria during pregnancy is a major public health concern and an important factor contributing to maternal and infant mortality in malaria-endemic countries. Particularly malaria complications in pregnant women with low immunity include;
-anemia
-pulmonary oedema
-immunosuppression
-fetal loss
-premature delivery
-low birth weight
Solutions,
Mosquito Elimination- insecticides
Bite Prevention- mosquito nets over the beds
Homemade insecticides for children
