Malaria
Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by Plasmodium parasites transmitted through bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. In Zimbabwe, Plasmodium falciparum is the most common and dangerous type, causing severe malaria.
Quick Facts
Category:Infectious Diseases
Prevalence:Endemic in low-lying areas; 3-5 million cases annually in Zimbabwe
Common Symptoms
High fever (often cyclical - every 48-72 hours)
Severe chills and rigors (shaking)
Profuse sweating
Headache
Muscle and joint pain
Nausea and vomiting
Fatigue and weakness
Diarrhea
Abdominal pain
Cough
Causes & Risk Factors
- Bite from infected female Anopheles mosquito
- Plasmodium falciparum parasite (most common in Zimbabwe)
- Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water
- Mosquitoes bite mostly between dusk and dawn
- Living in malaria-endemic areas
- Rainy season (November-April in Zimbabwe)
- Not using mosquito prevention methods
- Poor housing (no window screens, cracks in walls)
- Stagnant water near home
- Being outdoors at night
- Pregnancy
- Young age (children under 5)
- HIV/AIDS or weakened immune system
Prevention Strategies
- Sleep under insecticide-treated mosquito net (ITN) every night
- Use indoor residual spraying (IRS) when available
- Apply mosquito repellent on exposed skin (DEET, picaridin)
- Wear long sleeves and pants after sunset
- Keep doors and windows closed or screened
- Eliminate stagnant water around home
- Take antimalarial prophylaxis if traveling to endemic area
- Pregnant women: take IPTp (intermittent preventive treatment) - 3+ doses of SP
When to Seek Medical Care
- •Fever after visiting or living in malaria-endemic area
- •Symptoms appear within 2 weeks of mosquito exposure
- •Pregnant and have fever (malaria in pregnancy is dangerous)
- •Child under 5 with fever
- •Fever not improving after 2 days of treatment
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized medical guidance and treatment recommendations.
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