Parasitic Infection: Malaria

Question 1

What areas around the world does Malaria infect?

Answer 1

Malaria infects hot, tropical areas around the world.

Question 2

How do mosquitoes contract Malaria and how do mosquitoes pass this infection onto us?

Answer 2

Mosquitoes spread the Malaria parasite by biting a person or animal that has already been infected then when the mosquito goes on to bite a human, the parasite gets released into their bloodstream.

Question 3

What happens after the Malaria parasite has reached our bloodstream?

Answer 3

When the Malaria parasite is released into our bloodstream, it goes on to infect the liver’s cells. The parasite multiplies in the liver and then are released back into the bloodstream where it invades your red blood cells. The red blood cells burst, releasing more parasites around the body.

Question 4

What are the symptoms of malaria?

Answer 4

Malaria symptoms include:

• diarrhoea
• poor appetite
• trouble sleeping
• chills
• sweats
• fever
• rapid breathing
• headache
• nausea
• vomiting
• muscle aches

Question 5

How can you prevent malaria?

Answer 5

You can prevent malaria by:

• installing window screens
• using insect repellants
• placing mosquito netting over beds
• wearing long sleeved tops and pants
• doctor can prescribe you with anti-malarial drugs

Question 6

How can the anti-malarial drugs be taken?

Answer 6

The anti-malarial drugs will usually be taken by mouth, injection or into the veins.