World Malaria Day 2025: Look out for paediatric malaria, a killer disease that causes long-term issues among children
As per the WHO 2024 Report, India witnessed a remarkable 93% decline in malaria cases since 2000. However, it remains a public health concern in many parts of the world, and children are most vulnerable to malaria.
This is due to their low immunity, which can lead to long-term issues like cerebral malaria, acute anaemia, low glucose levels, and organ damage.
Paediatric malaria usually occurs among children below 15 years of age and is caused by plasmodium parasites. These parasites are transmitted to the human body through bites of infected anopheles mosquitoes. To avoid complications, it is imperative to be diagnosed on time and get it treated.
What are the symptoms?
Malaria symptoms in children are not typical of adults. However, some common symptoms to watch out for include fever, chills, fatigue and drowsiness, loss of appetite, vomiting or diarrhoea, rapid breathing, pale skin due to anaemia, seizures or altered consciousness in severe cases.
In infants, the signs can be more subtle, such as irritability, poor feeding and changes in sleeping patterns, etc.
Precautions and treatment
Timely diagnosis and treatment are crucial for recovery. Paediatric malaria is treated using antimalarial medication, and the selection of the medicine depends on the species of mosquito, the severity of the disease, and the resistance level for immunity.
Some of the important steps that need to be taken care of during the recovery of the child are:
- Supportive care at home and in hospitals is important for recovery
- Close monitoring of the conditions to avoid any severity
- Proper diet and nutrition can boost the immune system for faster and better recovery
- Completing the full recovery course.
By following simple tips, Children can stay safe and protected from the infection.
- Using insecticide-treated mosquito nets can protect children from mosquito bites.
- Dress children in full-sleeved clothes and pants, especially during the evening.
- Avoiding outdoor exposure at dusk and dawn can be beneficial.
- Do not let water stagnate near home
Paediatric malaria is a treatable condition, but early diagnosis of the disease is important for timely treatment and to prevent any complications. Further, staying aware of the disease and preventive measures can also help reduce the risk of the infection.
Dr. T.M. Sharath Babu is a Senior Consultant in Pediatrics and Neonatology at Apollo Cradle Hospital, Karapakkam, Chennai.
(Opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of THE WEEK)
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