Malaria

Why in News?

The WHO continues to focus on improved malaria diagnosis, treatment and vector-control strategies, including tools for Plasmodium vivax and larval-source management.

Basic Facts

Malaria is a potentially fatal disease caused by Plasmodium parasites.

Vector

  • Female Anopheles mosquito

Important Species

  • Plasmodium falciparum
  • Plasmodium vivax
  • P. malariae
  • P. ovale
  • P. knowlesi

Transmission

Primarily through bite of infected female Anopheles.

Can also occur through:

  • Blood transfusion
  • Contaminated needles
  • Mother-to-child transmission

Symptoms

  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Headache
  • Sweating
  • Severe cases → organ failure, seizures, coma and death

India

India's National Framework for Malaria Elimination 2016–2030 provides the broad framework for elimination efforts.

Prelims Trap

Malaria is not caused by a virus or bacterium.
It is caused by a protozoan parasite — Plasmodium.