is a parasite which grows at an alarming rate once it reaches the liver it then returns to the blood stream and continues to grow and multiply in the blood stream.
The mosquito that carries the parasite is a particular one called the Anopheles mosquito. When the next mosquito comes and bites you the parasite which is now in your blood stream transfers and so the cycle continues.
are often mistaken for Influenza symptoms include fever and, in some cases, complications affecting the kidneys, liver, brain and blood. The symptoms of the most life-threatening type of malaria are usually experienced between one week and two months after infection. There are other, less severe types of malaria, which can cause symptoms more than a year later. The most serious forms of the disease can affect the kidneys and brain and can cause anaemia, coma and death.
The World Health Organisation recommends that treatment be started within 24 hours after the first symptoms appear. Most medications used in treatment are active against the specific parasite forms which are infecting the people's blood. The medicines can be taken at home therefore there is no need for hospitalisation once diagnosis has been made and stabilised. Medical supervision should still be observed.
Large areas of Central and South America, Brazil, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Colombia and the Solomon Islands., Africa, the Middle East, the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and Oceania are considered high risk malaria areas.
Make sure you take with you and use a mosquito repellent with DEET (diethyltoluamide) in.
As much as possible keep all extremities covered with light clothing.
Sleep underneath mosquito netting and use screens on windows.