Malaria, a biting reality

Recently, there have been a few encounters of people that have contracted malaria, even though they haven’t been to a malaria area. The irony is that mosquitos aren’t controlled by border posts and there is an increase of traveling mosquitos.

Can malaria be confused with the common cold?
The first symptom of malaria is not different from the first symptom of a cold. If malaria is ignored and is not treated immediately (within 24 hrs) it can develop into a very serious situation. You can die. SA has one of the highest death rate from malaria in the world.

Symptoms of malaria
The bite of malaria carrying mosquito is like any other mosquito bite. The itch would feel the same. The clues are your symptoms and only after a week or two would you realize you are infected with malaria.

• Fever
• Cold fever
• Headaches
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue

How does one avoid malaria?

• The malaria parasite can be killed with preventative medication before you get sick. Start drinking the preventative medication before going into a malaria-infected area and complete the course.
• Stay indoors between sunrise and sunset.
• Wear light colours. Long sleeves and long trousers especially between sunrise and sunset.
• Sleep under a mosquito net that has been treated with an insecticide.
• Use mosquito repellents and apply every five hours.
• Spray an anti-mosquito spray in your bedroom before going to bed.
• Use a citronella candle or an electronic insect repellent during the day and night.
• Use a ceiling fan or an air conditioner in your room. This makes it difficult for mosquitos to fly.
• Deterrents with citronella are only effective for 20 minutes.
• Armband repellents do not provide the recommended protection.
• Vitamin B injections, do not provide protection.

How can CrisisOnCall help?

When driving to a malaria-infected area make contact with the health advisor at the call centre. They can identify the areas where malaria is and they can advise you accordingly.
If you experience any of the above-mentioned symptoms, contact the CrisisOnCall health advisor that can give you the correct advice and provide you with the correct recommendations. (Available at the emergency numbers)

(Source: Rooi Rose and the University of Pretoria)