Today being World Malaria Day, I will post some facts about malaria.
COURTESY: WHO
Fact 1:
Malaria is caused by parasites that are transmitted to people through the bites of infected mosquitoes. Malaria is caused by Plasmodium parasites that are spread to people through the bites of infected Anopheles mosquito vectors. Of the 5 parasite species that cause malaria in humans, Plasmodium falciparum is the most deadly.
Fact 2:
Nearly half of the world’s population is at risk of malaria. In 2015, there were an estimated 212 million malaria cases and some 429 000 malaria deaths. Young children, pregnant women and non-immune travellers from malaria-free areas are particularly vulnerable to the disease when they become infected.
Fact 3:
Children under 5 are at high risk of malaria In areas with high transmission of malaria, children under 5 are particularly susceptible to infection, illness and death. More than two thirds (70%) of all malaria deaths occur in this age group. In 2015, about 303 000 African children died before their fifth birthdays.
Fact 4:
Malaria mortality rates are falling Increased malaria prevention and control measures are dramatically reducing the malaria burden in many places. Since 2010, malaria mortality rates have fallen globally by 29% among all age groups, and by 35% among children under 5.
Fact 5:
Early diagnosis and prompt treatment of malaria prevents deaths Early diagnosis and treatment of malaria reduces disease and prevents deaths. It also contributes to reducing malaria transmission.
Access to diagnostic testing and treatment should be seen not only as a component of malaria control but as a fundamental right of all populations at risk!!!!
We can prevent malaria. Let’s be conscious of these preventive methods, keep mosquitoes away.
Author: Dr. Ayanleke Temitayo