Malaria is a potentially life-threatening infection caused by a parasite (called Plasmodium) which is passed to humans by mosquito bites. It infects red blood cells and the liver, and can cause serious illness and death.

The Malaria parasite (plasmodium) is carried by the Anopheles mosquito, which tends to bite in the evening. The parasite is passed from the insect’s mouth into the human body, and enters the bloodstream, soon making its way to the liver. After 1-2 weeks in the liver (the duration depends on the strain of Malaria parasite), [...]

There are 5 types of Malaria, caused by different forms of the Plasmodium parasite. Plasmodium falciparum Plasmodium ovale Plasmodium vivax Plasmodium malariae A fifth form known as Plasmodium knowlesi primarily affects monkeys. Plasmodium vivax and falciparum are the most common, with Plasmodium falciparum being the most dangerous form. Plasmodium vivax and ovale parasites can lie [...]

Australia was declared free of Malaria in 1981, but a few hundred cases happen here each year, as people return from travel abroad. There have also been some cases in the Torres Strait Islands. It is widespread in large parts of Africa, Asia, South America, the Pacific Islands and other places. When intending to travel, [...]

Symptoms of Malaria include: Fever Chills & sweats Aches & pains Headaches Nausea or vomiting Abdominal pain Diarrhoea Life-threatening complications of Plasmodium falciparum infection include: Jaundice (yellow discoloration of the eyes & skin) Abnormalities in blood clotting Kidney Failure Liver Failure Haemolytic Anaemia (a low blood count due to breakdown of red blood cells) Rupture [...]

It’s essential to avoid getting mosquito bites in the first place: try to stay indoors at times of the day when mosquitoes are most active ideally, stay in an air-conditioned room with insect screens, and/or sleep under a mosquito net that’s been treated with Permethrin. apply appropriate mosquito repellent to your body and spray it [...]

Malaria may be suspected due to symptoms during or after travel to a malarial zone. It’s possible to get Malaria even if you’ve taken preventive medication- so anyone with suspicious symptoms should see a doctor for assessment. The diagnosis can be confirmed by a blood test

Treatment for Malaria usually requires an admission to hospital. There are different treatment options- the choice of medication will depend on the location and the particular strain. The parasite has become resistant to some commonly used medications. This drug resistance varies from region to region, and can change over time. Therefore, it’s vital that the [...]