World Malaria Day is observed every year on 25 April to raise awareness about the deadly mosquito-borne disease which is spread to humans by female Anopheles mosquitoes and is caused by parasites of the Plasmodium genus: Plasmodium falciparum, P. vivax, P. ovale, P. malariae, and P. knowlesi. Of these, P. falciparum is the most deadly parasite, responsible for the majority of malaria-related deaths.
This year's theme is "Accelerating the fight against malaria for a more equitable world".
"Severe malaria infection, particularly with Plasmodium falciparum, during the first half of pregnancy, can lead to microcephaly and reduced blood flow to the uterus, depriving the fetus of oxygen and nutrients. This can result in premature birth." Preterm birth, low birth weight, and even fetal death may occur.,” Dr Sanjay Majumdar, consultant pediatrician at Bhailal Amin General Hospital, Vadodara, told IANS.
While mild infections pose little immediate neonatal risk, the potential for long-term neurological consequences remains.
Dr Majumda said, "Neurological risks to newborns include intrauterine growth retardation, hypoxic brain injury, seizures, low IQ, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and learning disabilities. These issues affect fetal brain development. "Arise from the maternal inflammatory immune response."
To reduce the risks, regular prenatal clinic visits for early screening and treatment are important.If the mother shows symptoms like fever or weakness, she should be tested for malaria immediately.
“It is essential to closely monitor the development and academic achievements of these children to address any potential deficits as early as possible. By emphasizing early detection, treatment and continued support, we can reduce the long-term neurological effects of malaria during pregnancy. Can reduce and promote healthy outcomes for both mother and baby,'' the doctor said.
The World Health Organization estimates that there are 15 million cases of malaria in India and 19,500–20,000 deaths annually.Although malaria is deadly, it is preventable and treatable, Dr Abhishek Gupta Consultant - Pediatric and Pediatric Intensivist, Manipal Hospital Gurugram, told IANS.
"The infection is caused by a parasite and does not spread from one person to another," he said.
Symptoms range from fever, chills, headache to fatigue, delusional seizures and difficulty breathing. However, early detection and treatment can prevent mild cases from getting worse. “Malaria can be prevented by avoiding mosquito bites and taking medicines.“Talk to a doctor about taking medication like chemoprophylaxis before traveling to areas where malaria is common,” said D Gupta.
He also suggested using mosquito nets while sleeping in places where malaria is prevalent; using mosquito repellents (containing DEET, IR3535, or icaridin) after dusk; And wearing protective clothing.
This year's theme is "Accelerating the fight against malaria for a more equitable world".
"Severe malaria infection, particularly with Plasmodium falciparum, during the first half of pregnancy, can lead to microcephaly and reduced blood flow to the uterus, depriving the fetus of oxygen and nutrients. This can result in premature birth." Preterm birth, low birth weight, and even fetal death may occur.,” Dr Sanjay Majumdar, consultant pediatrician at Bhailal Amin General Hospital, Vadodara, told IANS.
While mild infections pose little immediate neonatal risk, the potential for long-term neurological consequences remains.
Dr Majumda said, "Neurological risks to newborns include intrauterine growth retardation, hypoxic brain injury, seizures, low IQ, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and learning disabilities. These issues affect fetal brain development. "Arise from the maternal inflammatory immune response."
To reduce the risks, regular prenatal clinic visits for early screening and treatment are important.If the mother shows symptoms like fever or weakness, she should be tested for malaria immediately.
“It is essential to closely monitor the development and academic achievements of these children to address any potential deficits as early as possible. By emphasizing early detection, treatment and continued support, we can reduce the long-term neurological effects of malaria during pregnancy. Can reduce and promote healthy outcomes for both mother and baby,'' the doctor said.
The World Health Organization estimates that there are 15 million cases of malaria in India and 19,500–20,000 deaths annually.Although malaria is deadly, it is preventable and treatable, Dr Abhishek Gupta Consultant - Pediatric and Pediatric Intensivist, Manipal Hospital Gurugram, told IANS.
"The infection is caused by a parasite and does not spread from one person to another," he said.
Symptoms range from fever, chills, headache to fatigue, delusional seizures and difficulty breathing. However, early detection and treatment can prevent mild cases from getting worse. “Malaria can be prevented by avoiding mosquito bites and taking medicines.“Talk to a doctor about taking medication like chemoprophylaxis before traveling to areas where malaria is common,” said D Gupta.
He also suggested using mosquito nets while sleeping in places where malaria is prevalent; using mosquito repellents (containing DEET, IR3535, or icaridin) after dusk; And wearing protective clothing.
