5 Simple Ways to Beat Malaria - World Malaria Day

by Kunal sood / inMalaria, Measures, Precautions,
25th April is observed as World Malaria Day to generate more awareness worldwide about this potentially fatal disease and to mark the collective responsibility of the governments, healthcare organizations, and communities to reduce the burden of malaria on human health. India shares a burden of almost 6% of all malaria cases detected in the world. Malaria is caused due to the Protozoan Plasmodium and infection from Plasmodium Vivax is considered the most serious. Since the vector for transmission of malaria is a mosquito bite, preventing yourself from getting bitten in the first place is probably the best way to avoid getting malaria. The theme for world malaria day 2018 is “Ready to Beat Malaria” and these quick tips would help you do exactly that -
  1. Protective Clothing – Wearing long-sleeved clothing, socks, and shoes while going to areas where exposure is likely would significantly reduce the number of mosquito bites.
  1. Application of mosquito repellants – The use of mosquito repellants on exposed skin would deter mosquitoes from biting. Insect repellants are now pleasant smelling and come in gel, spray, lotion, and cream form.
  1. Screening of doors and windows – Windows and doors must be locked shut during evenings and all windows should be screened off to prevent the entry of mosquitoes.
  1. Spraying insecticide – Insecticides can be sprayed to kill any mosquito or larvae present. Fogger machines are an effective way to fumigate as they can treat a large area in a small amount of time and atomizes the solution into fog mist or spray.
  1. Using Naturopathy – Naturopathy can be used as a supplementary measure to reduce mosquito bites. Certain herbs and plants have a mosquito repelling effect. Lavender, Cinnamon, Thyme, and tea tree oil are often used to naturally ward off mosquitoes.

As malaria is a potentially fatal disease, it is important to recognize the signs and symptoms suggestive of malaria and seek medical help. Common Symptoms include headaches, muscle aches, shaking chills, nausea, and fatigue. If these symptoms occur, it is important to consult your General Physician and get tested. Various rapid malaria test kits are now available which can provide a fast and reliable result within minutes. Test kits such as SD Bioline Malaria Ag test provides rapid and differential detection of antibodies in the human serum, plasma, and blood and can distinguish between infections caused by Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium Vivax. Though malaria is a life-threatening disease, prevention is possible and if diagnosed early, the treatment is usually uncomplicated and recovery is possible. It is vital to recognize the signs, symptoms, and risks associated to malaria in order to keep yourself protected from this disease.