How COVID-19 and malaria are strikingly alike: A short review

Abstract

COVID-19 is a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) that began in Wuhan, China, in late 2019 and has since spread globally, disrupting efforts to contain it. In Africa, the COVID-19 infection may be influenced by malaria coinfection. Global health is severely hampered by the co-infection of COVID-19 and malaria, especially in areas where both illnesses are endemic. Studies that have already been conducted indicate that those who have co-infection may have more severe symptoms and a higher risk of dying, even though there is little information on the prevalence and consequences of co-infection. More studies and focused initiatives are required to address this issue because of the difficulties in diagnosing the two diseases and the possibility that co-infection would worsen already existing health inequities. Methodology: This review follows the guidelines of PRISMA. In this article, we reviewed published articles from 2019 to May 2023 on COVID-19 and malaria co-infection that might influence the ontology of COVID-19. Results: Sub-Saharan African countries have fewer COVID-19 cases due to factors like young populations, warm weather, lack of proper diagnosis, malaria history, and antimalarial drug use. Population genetics also influence COVID-19 dynamics. Clinical and pathological similarities between malaria and COVID-19 have confused diagnosis and treatment in Africa. Conclusion: Understanding the dynamics of COVID-19 infection in Sub-Saharan Africa and how another endemic disease like malaria shapes it can provide insights into how to tailor successful diagnostic, intervention, and control plans that lower disease morbidity and mortality. Coinfection with COVID-19 and malaria is related to expanded all-cause in-hospital mortality compared to mono-infection with serious acute respiratory disorder coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2).