Although, malaria mortality rates have fallen
by 42% globally and 49% in Africa, this life-
threatening disease needs to be watched and
treated in time.
According to the World Health Organisation
(WHO) latest estimates, released in December
2013, there were about 207 million cases of
malaria in 2012 and an estimated 627000
deaths, mainly children under 5 years of age
in sub-Saharan Africa.
Malaria is caused by Plasmodium parasites
that are transmitted to people through the
bites of infected mosquitoes.
World Malaria Day (WMD) is observed on April
25 every year to highlight the need for
continued investment and sustained political
commitment for malaria prevention and control.
Malaria is a curable and preventable, but can
be deadly if left untreated.
Preventive measures include:
Avoid mosquitoes bites: This is the first and
foremost line of defence for malaria
prevention. You can avoid mosquito bites by
following these guidelines such as by – using a
mosquito net while sleeping, wearing
protective clothing (long sleeved-shirts and
long pants), spraying your home with
insecticide, staying inside between dusk and
dawn if possible. Also insect repellent with
DEET can be used on skin.
Medicines: If you're travelling to a region
where malaria is common, you should take
precautions so that you do not contract it.
Tell your doctor which location you will be
travelling so that he can prescribe you the
right medicine depending on the type of
malaria parasite most commonly found in that
region. Take the medication as prescribed by
your doctor – before, during and after your
trip to avoid getting malaria.
Vaccines: As of now, there are no licensed
vaccines against malaria or any other human
parasite even as scientists are working on
developing effective vaccines against the disease.
Compiled by: Salome Phelamei
