Considering the alarming rate of malaria in Nigeria, we have deemed it safe to gather some of it’s causes and Prevention, according to WHO (The World Health Organization).
Note that, each year nearly 290 million people are infected with malaria, and more than 400,000 people die of the disease.
This is to say that, malaria is caused by a single-celled parasite of the genus plasmodium, the parasite is transmitted to humans most commonly through mosquito bites.
However, because the parasites that cause malaria affect red blood cells, people can also catch malaria from exposure to infected blood, including:
1. From mother to unborn child.
2. Through blood transfusions
3. By sharing needles used to inject drugs.
To crown it all, the greatest risk factor for developing malaria is to live in or to visit areas where the disease (as a result of mosquito bites) is common.
Prevention
If you live in or are traveling to an area where malaria is common, take these steps to avoid mosquito bites.
Cover your skin
Wear pants and long-sleeved shirts and as well tuck in your shirt, and tuck pant legs into socks.
Apply insect repellent to skin and clothes
Use an insect repellent and sprays registered with the Environmental Protection Agency on any exposed skin and on clothes respectively.
Sleep under a net
Bed nets, particularly those treated with insecticides, help prevent mosquito bites while you are sleeping.
Medicine
Take preventive medicine before, during and after a trip to a high-risk area.
Note that, many malaria parasites have developed resistance to common drugs used to treat the disease.
Vaccine
World Health Organization has recommended a malaria vaccine for use in children who live in countries with high numbers of malaria cases.