World Malaria Day: beat the bite

On 25 April it will be World Malaria Day, a day established by the World Health Organization to help shed light on this disease.

We are sharing some knowledge with you and your family so you’ll stay informed and healthy.

The lowdown on malaria

Malaria is a blood disease caused by a parasite that’s carried by the female  Anopheles mosquito.

Once bitten by the mosquito, the parasites multiply in the liver and then spreads in the bloodstream, destroying red blood cells.

Give those mozzies the buzz

The best way to prevent malaria is by preventing bites in the first place.

Wear long-sleeve shirts and long pants, especially between dusk and dawn

• Apply an insect repellent such as Tabard
• Burn insect repellent coils, citronella candles and use mosquito nets to try keep them at bay.

There are medications available like Malorone or Mefloquine that you can take as a preventative measure. Speak to your Healthcare Professional about where and when you are going and what they recommend.

Sneaky symptoms to look out for

Malaria symptoms are often similar to cold and flu symptoms, making them quite tricky to diagnose. So if you’ve visited a malaria area in the last six months, make sure you mention it to your doctor.

Sometimes these symptoms are mild and only last ten hours. But it’s better not to leave it untreated as malaria can be fatal. So when in doubt, see your doctor!

Malaria can have the following symptoms:

• Fever, sweating and chills
• Nausea
• Extreme tiredness
• Loss of consciousness
• Convulsions
• Trouble breathing

Putting malaria on the map

In South Africa, the risk of malaria is relatively low and is restricted to the north-eastern KwaZulu-Natal, parts of Mpumalanga and Limpopo. Malaria also affects the Kruger National Park.

It is a seasonal disease, and the lower risk months are between May and September.

Remember, malaria can easily be prevented. With a few of our handy tips, you can make sure those mozzies don’t get in the way of any holiday memories!