By Bashir Abubakar Umar
Malaria remains one of the world’s most persistent public health challenges, especially in tropical and subtropical regions. In other to get more information about the disease,I contacted Dr. Musa Muhammad Bello,who is working with Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital(AKTH),in the department of Community Medicine said,it is a life-threatening disease caused by parasites of the Plasmodium genus, which are transmitted to humans through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. Despite advances in medicine and public health campaigns, malaria continues to claim hundreds of thousands of lives each year, with children under five and pregnant women among the most vulnerable groups.
The disease is primarily caused by infection with Plasmodium falciparum, P. vivax, P. ovale, or P. malariae. The infection begins when an infected mosquito bites a person, releasing parasites into the bloodstream. These parasites travel to the liver, where they mature and multiply before re-entering the bloodstream to infect red blood cells. Malaria is not spread directly from person to person; rather, it requires the mosquito as a vector. However, it can also be transmitted through blood transfusions, organ transplants, or from an infected mother to her child during pregnancy.
Symptoms of malaria typically appear 7 to 10 days after infection. Early signs include fever, chills, headaches, muscle aches, sweating,body weakness, vomiting, diarrhoea, and change of taste. In severe cases, the disease can lead to anemia, respiratory distress, organ failure, and even death if left untreated. Diagnosis is usually confirmed through laboratory methods, such as microscopic examination of blood smears or rapid diagnostic tests, which detect malaria antigens in the blood.
Malam Abdurrahman, a resident of Dorayi Babba, said that the mosquitoes used to bite him not only at night, but he also advise the general public to use nets for prevention.
Prevention is the most effective way to reduce malaria cases and deaths. Sleeping under insecticide-treated mosquito nets can greatly reduce the chances of being bitten at night, while indoor residual spraying kills mosquitoes resting inside homes. Eliminating stagnant water, clearing of drainages,use of window and door nets,use of body lotion, and Fumigation,all these sources helps reduce mosquito breeding grounds, and in certain high-risk areas, preventive antimalarial medication is recommended for vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, children under 5, and foreigners.
Hajiya Rabi’a, a resident of Tudun Yola, said that the mosquitoes don't allow her to sleep at night because of their bites, even if she is in the net.
Treatment for malaria depends on the type of Plasmodium parasite and the severity of the infection. Artemisinin-based combination therapies are currently the most effective treatments for P. falciparum malaria, which is the most dangerous form. Early and proper treatment is essential to prevent severe illness and to help break the cycle of transmission.
The global impact of malaria remains significant. According to the World Health Organization, Africa accounts for more than 90% of malaria cases and deaths worldwide. Beyond its toll on health, the disease hampers economic development by reducing productivity, increasing healthcare costs, and deepening poverty in affected communities.
Although malaria is both preventable and treatable, it continues to thrive due to environmental conditions, limited healthcare access, and poverty in many regions. A sustained global effort is needed, combining prevention tools, effective treatment, public education, and ongoing research into vaccines. With commitment and coordinated action, the world can move closer to eliminating malaria and ensuring healthier, safer communities.
