On World Malaria Day, let’s take a moment to understand one of the deadliest but quite preventable diseases on earth. Read on for key facts and helpful tips about malaria and its history.
More people are killed by mosquitoes than any other species of animals and this insect is the deadliest animal in the world because of the life-threatening diseases it spreads. They are vectors (carriers) for illnesses like malaria, dengue, Zika virus, chikungunya, yellow fever.
Unlike other insects that contribute to ecological balance -- like pollinating or decomposing organic matter, that even cockroaches help with -- mosquitoes offer no significant environmental benefit. Their only minor role is as food for some birds and insects and they mainly function as disease spreaders.
According to the World Health Organization, in 2023, there were an estimated 263 million malaria cases and 597,000 malaria-related deaths reported across 83 countries.
There is a long history to the worldwide war against malaria. In 1880, French doctor Charles Louis Alphonse Laveran discovered the malaria parasite in human blood.
In 1897, British doctor Sir Ronald Ross proved that malaria is transmitted through the Anopheles mosquito. For this discovery, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in 1902, marking a turning point in global fight against the disease.
According to WHO and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, symptoms of malaria typically appear 10–15 days after an infected mosquito bite. Common signs include fever, chills, sweating, headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle pain, and fatigue. In some cases, people may also experience diarrhea or coughing. Early diagnosis is crucial, as malaria can become life-threatening if untreated.
To protect yourself from mosquitoes, WHO recommends several personal and household measures. These include sleeping under insecticide-treated bed nets, applying mosquito repellents containing DEET and wearing long-sleeved clothing. Also avoiding outdoor exposure during the dawn and dusk hours.
To control mosquitoes at a community level, WHO advises eliminating all potential breeding sites. This means draining stagnant water, regularly cleaning drains and practicing solid waste management.
In 2021, WHO approved the first-ever malaria vaccine (RTS,S) -- a historic step towards protecting children in high-risk regions. And a giant step for humanity. Malaria RIP soon.