Lately, the word malaria has been dominating the airwaves and the print media. I understand a few cases were detected in some places, like Mochudi, which is not really a known malaria area.
Malaria is a very common disease in Africa and the world. Many countries in Southern Africa are known to be harbouring the mosquito type that spreads malaria. Important to note are the northern parts of Botswana, Zimbabwe, some parts of South Africa and Mozambique. However, malaria can occur anywhere as long as conditions are favourable.
What is Malaria?
Malaria is a parasitic disease that is spread by a certain type of mosquitoes called anopheles mosquitoes. Only the female type does because it feeds on blood of humans and other vertebrates. Malaria is a common disease in Africa and continues to claim millions of lives.
World Health organization estimates about 89 percent of the malaria deaths worldwide occur in Africa, and that in 2008 malaria caused 190 -311 million clinical episodes, and 708, 000 ÔÇô 1┬á003┬á000 deaths (CDC).
What is the link between malaria and floods?
Flooding tends to leave stagnant water in various places and this offers mosquitoes a good opportunity to breed. Mosquitoes, including those that spread malaria, need water for breeding.
It is vital to know that water also collects in various containers, metal cans, carton boxes, bottles and many others.
How does Malaria present?
Malaria symptoms are usually unspecific. Commonly, malaria tends to present with flu like symptoms; headache, body pains, sweating, joint pains, unexplained tiredness, nausea and vomiting. What tends to be classic and often good enough to raise suspicion is the cyclical occurrence of sudden coldness, followed by shaking and then fever that can last for some hours.
The symptoms and signs tend to be progressive and usually appear after 10 to 15 days after the mosquito bite. Worse cases can cause confusion, disorientation, lethargy, loss of consciousness or even loss of life.
How can Malaria be detected in body?
Malaria can be diagnosed by a simple blood test. A rapid test can be done, or blood can be sent to the laboratory to be checked by microbiologists. When suspected, it is usually considered an emergency and results need to be known the same day if not a few hours.
Is malaria curable?
Malaria is a curable disease. However, over the years Malaria parasites have been showing some resistance to certain medications that used to cure it. This makes it very important to let your doctor know exactly which places you visited so that they can know what treatment to choose for you.
After diagnosis healthcare providers always prescribe tablets that are taken once or for a few days depending on the resistance pattern (usually known by your healthcare providers).
Sometimes hospitalisation is inevitable, especially when your clinicians feel that you have severe or life threatening disease.
Should travellers worry about malaria?
Yes. All travellers, especially those who travel to other African countries should always ask about Malaria and of course other infectious diseases that occur in those countries. One can inquire at the relevant embassies or consulates about the necessary medical preventative measures before leaving. You can also ask your doctor about these measures.
Usually, travellers to malaria endemic areas need to take some pills a few days before their trip and should continue as prescribed after leaving the malaria area to prevent the occurrence of the disease.
How can we prevent Malaria at Home?
Malaria can be prevented through various measures. These include; collection of all containers that collect water during the rains and floods, use of mosquito repellents, mosquito nets and wearing long sleeved clothes when going to bed.
What if I suspect Malaria?
Call your healthcare provider or nearest health facility. If it’s at night, you can also talk directly to emergency room doctors at any of the referral hospital like Bokamoso, Gaborone Private, or Princess Marina which are always open 24 hours.
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