Malaria

Also known as: malaria fever, malaria infection.

What is malaria?

Malaria is an infection from a parasite that is transmitted by mosquitoes. It’s more common in tropical parts of the world. If left untreated, the disease can be life-threatening.

What causes malaria?

The parasite that causes malaria is known as Plasmodium. If a person is bitten by an infected mosquito, the parasite can pass into his or her bloodstream.

What are the symptoms of malaria?

Symptoms of malaria infection include fever, chills, sweats, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache and flu like symptoms. If left untreated, disease can progress to convulsions, coma and death.

What are malaria care options?

Malaria is typically treated in a hospital. A number of medications can be used to kill the parasite and cure the disease. Supportive measures are also often needed.


Reviewed by: Carolina Sanchez-Vegas, MD

This page was last updated on: July 22, 2022 04:09 PM

Infectious Diseases

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