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Malaria

A tropical infection transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes and characterized by high fever and chills.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

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This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Internal Medicine department. Book Appointment →

What is Malaria?

Malaria is a parasitic disease caused by Plasmodium falciparum, vivax, malariae, and ovale species, transmitted by the female Anopheles mosquito. Approximately 240 million cases are reported worldwide each year, with sub-Saharan Africa being the most heavily affected region.

P. falciparum is the most lethal species and can cause cerebral malaria, severe anemia, and multi-organ failure. P. vivax and P. ovale leave dormant forms (hypnozoites) in the liver that can relapse months or years later.

Malaria should be considered in any febrile illness following travel to a tropical region; rapid diagnosis is made by peripheral blood smear or rapid antigen testing.

Symptoms

Periodic episodes of high fever (chills, fever, sweating cycle)
Severe headache and muscle aches
Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite
Anemia and jaundice (from hemolysis)
Splenomegaly
Altered consciousness and seizures in cerebral malaria (EMERGENCY)
Dark urine (renal involvement)

Risk Factors

Travel to malaria-endemic regions (Africa, South Asia, Latin America)
Travel without chemoprophylaxis
Failure to use mosquito protection
Spending nights outdoors
Immunosuppression
Pregnancy (risk of maternal and neonatal complications)
Childhood (high risk of severe malaria in Africa)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Onset of fever after travel to an endemic region (urgent evaluation required)
  • Accompanying altered consciousness or seizures (EMERGENCY)
  • Rapid neurological deterioration in children
  • Signs of respiratory distress and anemia
  • Having taken prophylaxis does not fully exclude malaria

Treatment Methods

01
Artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) — for P. falciparum
02
Chloroquine (in susceptible strains)
03
Intravenous artesunate in severe malaria (intensive care)
04
Primaquine to prevent P. vivax/ovale relapse
05
Chemoprophylaxis (pre-travel — atovaquone/proguanil, mefloquine, doxycycline)
06
Vector protection with mosquito repellent, bed net, and long-sleeved clothing

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.