Diseases
malaria
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Malaria is a disease caused by a parasite. The parasite is spread to humans through the bites of infected mosquitoes. People who have malaria usually feel very sick with a high fever and shaking chills.
Symptoms
- diarrhea
- abdominal pain
- fever
- chills
- general feeling of discomfort
Causes
- malaria is caused by a single-celled parasite of the genus plasmodium. the parasite is transmitted to humans most commonly through mosquito bites.
- through blood transfusions
- by sharing needles used to inject drugs
Risk factors
- being in sub-saharan africa
- being in south and southeast asia
- being in central america and northern south america
Diagnosis
- blood test.
- physical exam.
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is malaria?
Malaria is a disease caused by a parasite. The parasite is spread to humans through the bites of infected mosquitoes. People who have malaria usually feel very sick with a high fever and shaking chills.
What are the symptoms of malaria?
diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, chills, general feeling of discomfort
What causes malaria?
malaria is caused by a single-celled parasite of the genus plasmodium. the parasite is transmitted to humans most commonly through mosquito bites.; through blood transfusions; by sharing needles used to inject drugs
Which medicines are used for malaria?
atovaquone, atovaquone-proguanil, chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine, mefloquine, primaquine, pyrimethamine, quinidine, quinine
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