Malaria is an infectious disease caused by a protozoan parasite from the Plasmodium family, carried by transmitting mosquitoes. The disease can also be transmitted by a contaminated needle, or by transfusion. There are several types of malaria; however the strain that can be most deadly is Falciparum Malaria.

If you've recently been traveling in a malaria-infected area, there's a possibility that you've contracted malaria. The symptoms are different for different people, but there are some indicators that should help you to decide whether or not to get tested.

Malaria Symptoms: -

• Take your temperature if you suspect a fever. Malaria can cause a body temperature of up to 104 degrees and sometimes even higher. If you feel like you have been exposed to mosquitoes and experience a high body temperature, you should be checked.
• Do not ignore any nausea or vomiting, especially if you are traveling to a tropical location or already live in one. This is a symptom of malaria and should be addressed with a doctor as soon as possible.
• Do not ignore a headache or any other pains in your body. These are another symptom and should be treated as such, especially if you are at risk for malaria.
• Pay attention to how much you are sweating. Tropical locations tend to be hot, but do not assume your sweating is normal if you are at risk for malaria, especially if it is coupled with any of the other symptoms.
• In contrast to sweating, be aware of any shakiness or chills you might be experiencing. These are also symptoms of malaria and should not be ignored.

While malaria is no longer a major health threat in the United States, it continues to be a devastating disease in other parts of the world. It infects up to 500 million people per year and results in more than a million deaths. The disease, which is spread by the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito, is most deadly in Sub-Saharan Africa, where 90 percent of worldwide malaria deaths occur.

• Take necessary precautions to prevent malaria from mosquito bites. Such measures include installing screens on all windows and doors. If screens are not available, a mosquito net over your bed can protect you at night. You may spray the net with a mosquito repellent.
• Wear long sleeves and light-colored pants in the evening. Use a mosquito repellent with DEET.
• Ask your doctor about taking a prophylactic medicine (a group of medicines that prevent malaria) if you plan to travel to a country where malaria is common. The medication can minimize the chances of you getting the disease, although it doesn’t protect you 100 percent.
• Start taking the medication a week before your trip. Depending on which medicine you take, continue taking it for 1 to 4 weeks. If you return home before the specified time, continue taking the medicine. Otherwise, any parasites in your blood could grow and multiply.

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