Srinagar: Malaria is a disease that is caused by mosquito bites. Shaking chill and high fever are the main symptoms of Malaria. In tropical and subtropical countries, malaria is extremely common. However, Malaria is also preventable. With proper precautions and preventive measures, mosquito bites can be prevented. Every year, World Malaria Day is celebrated to raise awareness about the prevention measures against Malaria and what we can do to ensure that we do not fall victim to this disease. As we gear up to celebrate the special day, here are a few things that we must keep in mind.”On this World Malaria Day 2024, we unite under the theme – Accelerating the fight against malaria for a more equitable world. This theme, which is in sync with this year’s World Health Day theme – My Health, My Right, underscores the urgent need to address the stark inequities that persist in access to malaria prevention, detection, and treatment services,” stated Saima Wazed, WHO Regional Director for South-East Asia on the official website of World Health Organisation. World Malaria Day urges people to come together to help in preventing the spread of this disease. It also sets the platform for international partners, companies, and foundations to showcase their efforts in eradicating this disease and contributing to better healthcare structure.
Talking about the symptoms and preventions, Dr Mohsin Bin Mushtaq Shah, Consultant Internal Medicine at Paras Hospital Srinagar said that the lack of sanitization in colonies and buildings in both rural and urban areas is contributing to this rise in malaria cases. There are many factors such as climate change and improper drainage systems during rainy seasons. Malaria symptoms include fever, chills, sweats, fatigue, nausea and body aches, with severe cases leading to complications like organ failure or coma. “If you experience these symptoms after travelling to a malaria-endemic area, seek immediate medical attention,” Said Dr. Shah. “To prevent malaria, use insect repellents, sleep under treated bed nets, wear protective clothing, and consider indoor sprays. If travelling to affected areas, take prescribed antimalarial medications, eliminate standing water, and stay informed about local risks to reduce the disease’s risk,” he said.
