Malaria

Abstract

Malaria is a disease known to mankind since prehistoric times and still remains a major vector-borne parasitic disease, causing high morbidity and mortality in certain regions of the world. Currently five species of Plasmodium are recognised as causative agents of malaria in humans. These include Plasmodium falciparum, Plasmodium vivax, Plasmodium ovale, Plasmodium malariae and Plasmodium knowlesi, while the mosquitoes of the genus Anopheles are the transmitting vectors. Humans who are the intermediate hosts may present with variable signs and symptoms depending on the causative Plasmodium species, immune response and the timing and efficacy of treatment. ‘Gold standard’ for diagnosis is microscopy of stained thick and thin blood smears, while rapid diagnostic tests have been useful in settings where microscopic skills and expertise are lacking. Even though molecular diagnostic methods are available, their usage is limited due to logistical constraints. Research involving animal models have managed to overcome some of the challenges of in vitro cultivation of some species of this digenetic parasite. Eliciting a detailed travel history, investigating for possible malaria, early diagnosis and treatment of patients, vector control and adhering to prophylactic measures specially when travelling to a malaria-endemic area or high-risk groups living in such areas are of utmost importance in prevention and control of malaria. It is worthy to note that many countries have been able to reduce the malaria burden or even eliminate malaria during the last decade, despite the lack of a successful vaccine during earlier years.