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Malaria is a vector-borne infectious disease caused by protozoan parasites, Plasmodium which is transmitted via bites of infected mosquitoes. The parasites multiply in the liver and it affects the red blood cells.
Symptoms
- Fever
- Headache
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Flu-like symptoms
* Usually appear between 10 to 15 days after the mosquito bite.
Causes
- Bites of mosquitoes infected by Protozoan parasites named Plasmodium
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Self care
- Prompt and effective treatment with artemisinin-based combination therapies
- Use of insecticidal nets by people at risk
- Indoor residual spraying with insecticide to control the vector mosquitoes
- Protect body with clothing before going for outings especially after sunset
Medication
- Prophylactic therapy is available before traveling into endemic area. (e.g. Mefloquine, Primaquine, Proguanil, Pyrimethamine)
- Please contact your doctor or pharmacist on appropriate prophylaxis regimen.
* If not treated, malaria can be life threatening when the blood supply to vital organs is disrupted.
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