Efforts are being made around the world to control malaria. And World Malaria Day is recognized on 25 April each year. The disease should not be underestimated, because two years ago almost half of the world’s population was at risk of malaria, according to the World Health Organization, in 2021 there are nearly 250 million cases of malaria worldwide. with approximately 619,000 deaths if you are a worried mother You should know the signs of malaria in children.
For World Malaria Day 2023, Health Shots connects with Dr Vaishali Lokhande, General Medical Consultant at Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai, to know about common signs of malaria in children.
What is malaria?
Mosquito bites may seem harmless most of the time. but not all Malaria is a parasitic infection caused by Plasmodium. It is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected female Anopheles mosquito, Dr. Locande said. The most common strains that infect humans are Plasmodium falciparum, Plasmodium vivax, plasmodium ovale, plasmodium malaria and Plasmodium knowlessee When parasites enter our body It infects and destroys our red blood cells.
Signs of malaria in children
The symptoms of malaria in children may be similar to those we see in adults. But there are some differences in signs and symptoms that can help distinguish it from other illnesses such as COVID-19 and H3N2 influenza. Symptoms of malaria in children can include:
• fever
• chills
• headache
• muscle aches and pains
• fatigue
• vomiting
• diarrhea
In some cases, children with malaria may have seizures. mental state changes and difficulty breathing experts say One of the main differences between juvenile and adult malaria is the severity of the symptoms. Children are more likely to experience severe symptoms and complications from malaria than adults. This is partly because the body’s immune system is not fully developed. poses a risk of infection Children with malaria may be anemic. This can cause fatigue, weakness, and pale skin, in severe cases. Malaria can cause a condition known as malaria. cerebral malaria This affects the brain and can lead to coma or even death.
How to treat malaria
Treatment for malaria is not just about administering specific medications to those affected. Several factors are taken into account, such as the type of Plasmodium parasite that causes the infection. disease severity a person’s age and overall health status There are antimalarial drugs that are specifically designed to target the parasites responsible for the infection. The most effective drugs for treating malaria are artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs). These therapies combine artemisinin derivatives with other antimalarial drugs, such as: lufenthrin or mefloquine to increase effectiveness and reduce the risk of drug resistance
If your child has malaria Your little one may need palliative care to manage symptoms and prevent complications. Therefore, antipyretic drugs may be needed to reduce fever. Fluid and electrolyte replacement can help manage dehydration. A blood transfusion may be needed in severe anemia.
Tips to Protect Children From Malaria
Mothers can take a number of measures to protect their children from malaria. These measures include:
1. Use mosquito nets.
Insecticide-treated mosquito nets can be hung over the baby’s bed. To prevent mosquito bites while sleeping It is important to make sure the nets are in good condition and properly treated with pesticides.
2. Apply mosquito repellent
Mosquito repellents containing picaridin or lemon eucalyptus oil can be applied to skin and clothing to repel mosquitoes. There is always a natural mosquito repellent that you can try.
3. Wear protective clothing.
Children should wear long sleeves and long pants. Especially during the time when mosquitoes are most active.
4. Avoid mosquito bites.
Mothers should encourage their children to avoid mosquito bites by staying indoors during mosquito-rich times. (usually at dusk and dawn) Use air conditioning or fans to repel mosquitoes. and close windows and doors or screens
5. Take anti-malarial medication
If you are traveling to an area where malaria is endemic Mothers should consult their doctors to determine if their child should be taking antimalarial medication. experts recommend
You must remember that mosquitoes breed in stagnant water. So getting rid of it around Home is important. If you have standing water in your flower pot, bucket or puddle, it’s time to get rid of it.
