Description: Malaria is a serious infectious disease caused by parasites of the genus Plasmodium, which are transmitted to humans through the bites of infected mosquitoes, primarily of the Anopheles genus. This disease is characterized by symptoms such as high fever, chills, sweating, headache, nausea, and vomiting. In severe cases, it can lead to anemia, respiratory complications, and ultimately death. Malaria is endemic in many tropical and subtropical regions of the world, affecting millions of people each year, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. The transmission of malaria occurs in cycles, where the infected mosquito bites a person, injecting the parasites into their bloodstream. Once inside, the parasites multiply in the liver and then invade red blood cells, causing their rupture and releasing more parasites into the system. Malaria not only affects the health of individuals but also has a significant impact on the economic and social development of affected communities due to the disease burden and associated treatment and prevention costs.
History: Malaria has been known since ancient times, with references to the disease in texts from civilizations such as the Egyptian and Greek. The term ‘malaria’ comes from the Italian ‘mala aria’, meaning ‘bad air’, as it was believed that the disease was caused by contaminated air from swampy areas. In the 19th century, the life cycle of the Plasmodium parasite and its relationship with Anopheles mosquitoes were identified, thanks to the work of scientists like Sir Ronald Ross, who received the Nobel Prize in 1902 for his research. Throughout the 20th century, antimalarial treatments and vector control programs were developed; however, malaria remains a public health issue in many parts of the world.
Uses: Malaria is primarily addressed through prevention and treatment. Preventive measures include the use of insecticide-treated bed nets, indoor spraying, and the elimination of mosquito breeding sites. Regarding treatment, antimalarial medications such as artemisinin and its derivatives are used, which are effective in eliminating the parasite from the body. Additionally, vaccines are being researched to provide long-term immunity against malaria.
Examples: An example of a successful malaria control program is the one implemented in the African continent, where the mass distribution of insecticide-treated bed nets has significantly reduced the incidence of the disease in several countries. Another case is the development of the RTS,S vaccine, which has shown efficacy in preventing malaria in children in endemic areas.
