By Dr Ellane Simon
World Malaria Day
It is a day set aside highlighting global efforts to control malaria and celebrating the gains that have been made so far.
Malaria remains a big problem in other parts of the world and in Zimbabwe it’s a public health problem. It is common in areas that are hot and moist. The theme for 2020 is “Zero malaria starts with me”.
What is malaria?
It is a disease caused by infection with a parasite female anopheles mosquito. The mosquito is the vector that transmits the infection. Found mainly where there are open water bodies.
In Zimbabwe malaria peaks from November to April. The most effective control and prevention strategy is through prevention of mosquito bites.
Symptoms include fever, chills, rigors, headache, nausea,anorexia, joint pains, malaise and sweating.
There is also a history of staying in an area known to be endemic of malaria or traveling to that area. However one might not present with all the symptoms. In this era of COVID-19 pandemic excluding it is also important in those diagnosed with malaria.
Treatment – Malaria is a treatable disease. There are oral medications and intravenous medicines that can be used to cure the disease.
The disease progress quickly therefore early treatment saves life than late treatment.
There is no vaccine for malaria. Malaria can affect anyone of any age and despite previous infection you can still get malaria.
Prevention – Sleeping under a treated mosquito net and using mosquito repellents.
Wearing long sleeved shirts at night to avoid mosquito bites. Spraying open water bodies and covering them.
Taking malaria prophylaxis when traveling to a malaria endemic area.
Malaria is still a disease that kills thousands to millions of people every year.
Therefore let’s prevent malaria in our communities.
Compiled by Zimbabwe Online Health Centre
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