CAUSES OF MALARIA / TYPES / DRUGS AND PREVENTION TIPS

                                 

ANOPHELES MOSQUITO

Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by a parasite called Plasmodium. This parasite is transmitted to humans by the bites of the female Anopheles mosquito.

Any moment a female infected mosquito bites, the parasite is hosted in the liver and destroys red blood cells through the bloodstream.

                                     Types Of Malaria Parasites

 The Plasmodium parasite is of different types, five of which cause malaria in humans. But among the five, two of them (Plasmodium falciparumPlasmodium vivax) pose a greater danger.

These plasmodium parasites are:

1.  Plasmodium falciparum: (P. falciparum) This is the predominant type of malaria parasite. It is majorly the cause of malaria death in the world. Although, mostly found in Africa. plasmodium genus is mostly found in Africa.

 2. Plasmodium vivax (P. vivax): This malaria parasite is less severe than Plasmodium falciparum. however, it can stay longer in the liver, this parasite is mostly found in South America and Asia respectively.

3. Plasmodium Ovale: (P.Ovale): This can stay much longer in the liver than Plasmodium vivax without causing symptoms.
It is found more in West Africa and relatively uncommon.

4. Plasmodium knowlesi (P. knowlesi): This species is not common and they can be found in some parts of Southeast Asia.

5. Plasmodium malariae (P. Malariae): This plasmodium genus is rare. they are usually found in Africa. 

                                   Types of Malaria Drugs

 Malaria can be treated in different ways. The prescription of drugs and length of treatment is determined by the type of the malaria parasite to be treated, the age of the patient, and the severity of the symptoms. Consult a doctor to choose the one that will be more effective for you.

 There are some most antimalaria drugs such as;

•  Artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTS)

 This is a combination of two or more drugs that fight against the malaria parasite. There are types of ACTS which include artemether-lumefantrine and artesunate-amodiaquine.
 This is the most preferred effective first-line malaria treatment.

•   quinine sulfate
•   mefloquine
•   primaquine phosphate
•   Malarone
•   chloroquine phosphate
•    Doxycycline
•   Tafenoquine

            Prevention Tips

Malaria can be well prevented. The strict observance of the below tips can prevent anopheles mosquito bites; 

•  .Apply mosquito repellents
•   Use mosquito treated net
•   Take antimalaria tablets
•   Stay in a well-screened area at night.
•   Cover yourself properly with long sleeves at night. 

•  Consult a doctor to discuss symptoms you get immediately.