What Mosquitoes Carry Malaria
Despite the best efforts of many nations, malaria is still an extremely dangerous disease. It can cause a wide range of symptoms, including high fever, flu-like illness, headache, muscle aches, shaking chills, vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea. It can also cause death.
Malaria is spread by the bite of a female Anopheles mosquito. The mosquito must have been infected with the parasite through a previous blood meal. The parasites live inside the mosquito and need warmth to mature. When the mosquito bites a human, the parasites are injected into the person. The malaria parasite is very complex and can evade the immune system. It is therefore important to get immediate medical treatment if you become infected.
The World Health Organization estimates that around one million people are killed annually due to malaria. It is most common in Africa south of the Sahara desert, but the disease is also found in parts of Central and South America.
The most common types of malaria are Plasmodium falciparum and P. ovale. The liver stages of these parasites can remain in the body for years without causing sickness. However, if they reactivate, the parasites can lead to severe infections. The parasites are very difficult to treat.
While malaria is a serious illness, there are ways to prevent it. One of the most effective ways is to avoid mosquito bites. Use a natural repellent such as citronella. You can also spray your home with a mosquito-repellent made from eucalyptus oil. This can help give you 50% more protection.