What are the Major 4 Diseases Caused by the Malaria Virus?

Malaria, a formidable foe of humanity for centuries, continues to be a significant global health concern, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. This mosquito-transmitted infectious disease is caused by the Plasmodium parasite, and it manifests in various forms, each with its own characteristics and challenges. In this blog, we explore the primary causes and types of malaria, delve into treatment options, and discuss preventive measures to combat it effectively.

Understanding Malaria

Before going into detail about the diseases caused by the malaria virus, it is important to understand the general information on malaria. The disease is spread by the bite of the female Anopheles mosquitoes that carry the parasite. Inside the human body, the parasites travel to the liver, where they develop and reproduce before infecting red blood cells, leading to the typical malaria symptoms.

Symptoms of Malaria

Malaria symptoms usually appear within seven to thirty days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. Yet, in some cases, symptoms may develop months or even years later. Common symptoms include:

1. Fever: Fever is a common and often the very first symptom of malaria. It can be irregular, with variable length intervals determined by the parasite species.
2. Chills and Sweats: Patients may develop chills that are followed by sweating, and these symptoms may cause the body temperature to drop below the normal range.
3. Headache: Headaches are persistent problems that may vary from mild to severe.
4. Nausea and Vomiting: Malaria usually contributes to gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.
5. Muscle and Joint Pain: Patients might suffer from muscle pain and joint aches, which can be so severe that they can't move.
6. Fatigue: Malaria can cause severe tiredness and weakness, affecting your daily activities.
7. Other Symptoms: In more severe cases, malaria can cause complications such as jaundice, confusion, seizures, and organ failure.

Types of Malaria

While all types of malaria share common symptoms, such as fever, chills, sweats, headache, nausea, and vomiting, they differ in severity, treatment, and geographic distribution. The four major diseases caused by the malaria virus are:

1. Plasmodium falciparum Malaria: Usually referred to as the deadliest form of malaria, P. falciparum infection can result in serious complications that can be fatal if not treated immediately. This species is widely spread in the tropical and subtropical regions, such as sub-Saharan Africa. The complications include severe anaemia, cerebral malaria, multi-organ failure, and death, making it a deadly disease.
2. Plasmodium vivax Malaria: The parasite P. vivax is the most widespread malaria parasite outside the sub-Saharan region. However, it is generally not as fatal as P. falciparum, P. vivax malaria still causes considerable morbidity and economic burden because of its recurrent nature. P. vivax has dormant liver stages called hypnozoites, which can be reactivated weeks to months after initial infection, resulting in a cyclic recurrence pattern.
3. Plasmodium malariae Malaria: P. malariae infection is a rare form of malaria, which is asymptomatic and can be found in the human host for years without any symptoms. This chronicity may cause long-term health problems such as kidney disease or anaemia. It is found in many malaria-endemic regions but is more prevalent in certain parts of Africa and Asia.
4. Plasmodium ovale Malaria: Like P. vivax, P. ovale can form dormant liver stages, which in turn cause relapses of malaria. Although its severity is less than that of P. falciparum, P. ovale malaria is characterised by recurring episodes of fever and illness. It is mostly seen in Africa, more specifically in West Africa and the Asia-Pacific area.

When To See a Doctor?

It is important to see a doctor immediately if you have symptoms that might indicate malaria, especially if you live in or have recently been to a malaria-endemic area. The consequences of delayed treatment might be as serious as death, especially with Plasmodium falciparum infections. However, anyone with a fever who has recently been to a malaria-endemic region should seek medical attention, even if the symptoms are mild.

Treatment of Malaria

Treatment of malaria depends on different factors, such as the species of the infecting parasite, the severity of the disease, and the individual’s age and medical history. Antimalarial medications are prescribed based on these considerations:

1. Artemisinin-based Combination Therapies (ACTs): ACTs are the first-line treatment for uncomplicated malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum, the most deadly malaria parasite.
2. Quinine and Other Antimalarials: In the areas where drug-resistant malaria is prevalent, medications such as quinine, chloroquine, mefloquine, or atovaquone-proguanil may be used instead.
3. Hospitalisation: Severe malaria is life-threatening and requires hospitalisation for supportive care, which includes intravenous fluids, oxygen therapy, and close monitoring of vital signs.
4. Prevention of Relapse: For parasites of Plasmodium vivax or Plasmodium ovale, re-infection prevention (hypnozoite clearance), in addition to the treatment, may be required. 

Tips to Prevent Malaria

Preventing malaria involves a combination of personal protective measures and community-based interventions. Here are some tips to help prevent malaria:

1. Sleep under insecticide-treated mosquito nets, especially in malaria-endemic areas.
2. Apply mosquito repellent on exposed skin areas while outside, especially during the dusk and dank, as these are the times when mosquitoes are most active.
3. Wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, socks, and closed-toe shoes to cover exposed skin.
4. Make sure to empty, clean, or cover containers that can hold water, such as flower pots, buckets, birdbaths, and other places where mosquitoes can breed around your house.
5. If you develop symptoms associated with malaria, such as fever, chills, headache, and body aches, immediately seek medical attention for diagnosis and treatment.

Conclusion

Malaria remains a significant global health challenge, with millions of people affected each year, particularly in regions with limited access to healthcare resources. Understanding the types and causes of malaria is crucial for effective prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of the disease. We can strive towards a malaria-free world by raising awareness, investing in research and development, and strengthening healthcare systems.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Can malaria spread from person to person?
   
   Answer:- No, malaria is not directly transmitted from person to person. It is spread through the bite of infected Anopheles mosquitoes.
   
   
2. Is malaria a fatal disease?
   
   Answer:- Yes, malaria can be fatal, particularly if caused by the Plasmodium falciparum parasite.
   
   
3. Can children get infected with malaria?
   
   Answer:- Yes, children are susceptible to malaria infection. In endemic regions, children under the age of five are particularly vulnerable to severe malaria and its complications.
   
   
4. How is malaria diagnosed?
   
   Answer:- Malaria is diagnosed through blood tests, including microscopic examination of blood smears and rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) that detect malaria antigens.
   
   
5. Can malaria be transmitted through blood transfusions?
   
   Answer:- Yes, malaria can be transmitted through blood transfusions if the donor's blood contains the malaria parasite.