The recent new cases of malaria in Jamaica have brought increased interest into malaria which is found in many tropical countries. This disease has being around for centuries and despite the impressive results by the World Health Organization eradication programmes, which started in 1956, technical and socioeconomic difficulties have led to a resurgence of this disease in many countries around the world. Fortunately, malaria can be successfully treated if diagnosed early. In a few cases a malaria infection can result in death.

What is malaria?
Malaria is a protozoan disease transmitted to humans by the bite of Anopheles mosquitoes. (This mosquito is not usually found in Anguilla.) The mosquito caries the infective agent and when the mosquito bites a human being the infective agent gets into the blood and then multiplies. This results in malaria infection.

What are the symptoms of malaria?
Malaria is an infection that causes high fevers and chills. Anaemia and a chronic relapsing course may develop.
Other symptoms include the following:
• Headache
• Muscle pains
• enlarged spleen
The incubation period between the bite of the infective mosquito and onset of symptoms is usually 10 to 14 days in vivax and falciparum malaria and 18 days to 6 weeks in malariae infections.

Diagnosis
The most important diagnostic test is a careful medical history. History of recent travel to areas having malaria is vital. The diagnosis is confirmed by demonstrating the parasites in the peripheral blood.

Treatment
The use of appropriate medications can cure malaria. Individuals having symptoms suggestive of malaria, especially if they have visited countries where malaria is present, should see their doctor for evaluation and further management.

How can you protect yourself from getting malaria?
If you live in a country where malaria is present, you should do whatever you can to keep from getting mosquito bites. If you can, sleep in a room with screens on the windows and doors. Use a mosquito net over your bed. During the evening, wear light-coloured clothes with long sleeves. Try not to go outside after the sun sets.
If you plan to travel to a country where malaria is common you should take prophylactic mediations which are available in Anguilla. These mediations should be started a few weeks before you leave on your trip and you should keep taking the medication during your trip, and after your trip for about 1 to 4 weeks, depending on which medicine you are taking. Your doctor will tell you which medicine is best for you and whether you should take it.

Conclusion
Malaria is an infection that causes high fevers and chills and is spread by the Anopheles mosquito. Individuals planning to travel to countries where malaria is present should use prophylactic medications. Individuals returning from countries where malaria is present and are developing a high fever should consult their doctor to rule out malaria infection. The vast majority of individuals suffering with malaria once diagnosed and treated appropriately can be cured. Attempts to eradicate malaria from the world is still a goal of the World Health Organization. Until this is achieved we must still grapple with this disease.

Ask Your Doctor is a health education column and is not a substitute for medical advice from your physician. Dr. Brett Hodge is an obstetrician/gynaecologist and family doctor who has over twenty years in clinical practice. Dr. Hodge has a medical practice in the Johnson Building in The Valley.

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