Malaria
A disease caused by a plasmodium parasite, transmitted by the bite of infected mosquitoes.
The severity of malaria varies based on the species of plasmodium.
Symptoms are chills, fever, and sweating, usually occurring a few weeks after being bitten.
People traveling to areas where malaria is common typically take protective drugs before, during, and after their trip. Treatment includes antimalarial drugs.
- Treatable by a medical professional
- Spreads by animals or insects
- Requires a medical diagnosis
- Lab tests or imaging always required
- Short-term: resolves within days to weeks
Critical: needs emergency care
HOW IT SPREADS
By animal or insect bites or stings.
By blood products (unclean needles or unscreened blood).
