Exclusive: On World Malaria Day 2024, Dr Shares Danger Signs Parents Must Watch Out For In Child With Malaria

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World Malaria Day is an international observance commemorated every year on 25 April. It is a day dedicated to raising awareness about malaria and mobilizing efforts to control and prevent the spread of this deadly disease. The 2024 theme for World Malaria Day is 'Accelerating the fight against malaria for a more equitable world.'

In an exclusive interview with Boldsky, a renowned Consultant in Neonatology & Paediatrics at Kinder Hospital, Dr Shilpa Pandya sheds light on the critical aspects of malaria, myths related to the disease and its impact on children. With her expertise and dedication to pediatric care, she provides valuable insights into understanding, preventing, and managing malaria in children.

'Malaria is a preventable disease, yet it remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality, particularly in developing nations. Accelerating efforts to combat malaria is crucial to prevent unnecessary loss of life and ensure equal access to health resources for all,' says Dr Pandya.

What Is Malaria? Know Its Common Symptoms In Children

Malaria is a mosquito-borne parasitic disease caused by Plasmodium falciparum. It significantly impacts the health of both children and adults. When a person is infected with malaria, the parasites multiply in their liver and then infect red blood cells, leading to symptoms like fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes loose stools, says Dr Pandya. Severe cases can result in organ failure and even death if left untreated.

Children infected with malaria often experience fever, which may be accompanied by chills, headache, nausea, vomiting, and occasionally loose stools. However, it's important to note that not all children with malaria exhibit the typical chills with fever, so other symptoms like general malaise or fatigue should also be considered.

How Should Parents Care For A Child With Malaria? Danger Signs To Watch Out For

Dr Pandya believes, parents play a crucial role in caring for a child with malaria. It's essential to provide supportive care, including administering anti-fever medications like Paracetamol, ensuring the child gets plenty of rest, and encouraging them to drink ample fluids to stay hydrated. However, the cornerstone of treatment is an appropriate antimalarial medication prescribed by a healthcare professional. It's imperative to complete the prescribed course of medication to prevent relapses and fully eradicate the parasites from the body.

It is important that parents should be vigilant for any danger signs that indicate severe malaria or complications. These signs include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), seizures, the presence of blood in urine or stools, or persistent fever despite taking antimalarial medication. If any of these signs occur, immediate medical attention is necessary.

What Are Some Myths About Malaria That Parents Should Be Aware Of?

There are several common myths surrounding malaria that parents should be aware of to ensure they have accurate information, says Dr Pandya.

Myth 1: Malaria spreads through contaminated water or being in contact with an infected person.
Fact: Malaria is transmitted only through mosquito bites or blood transfusions, not through water or casual contact.

Myth 2: Malaria-infected mothers should not breastfeed.
Fact: Malaria parasites are not transmitted through breast milk; however, certain medications may require caution while breastfeeding.

Myth 3: Children can get malaria through contact with an infected child.
Fact: Malaria does not spread through casual contact or sharing items like clothes or utensils.

Myth 4: Malaria infection provides lifelong immunity.
Fact: people can be reinfected with the same or different species of the parasite, so immunity is not permanent.

Myth 5: A malaria vaccine is available.
Fact: While research is ongoing, currently there are no widely available malaria vaccine on the market.

How Can Parents Protect Their Children From Malaria?

Preventing malaria involves a combination of measures: Using mosquito repellents, coils, or vaporizers to keep mosquitoes away. Wearing full-coverage clothing, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active. Eliminating stagnant water around the home, as mosquitoes breed in standing water, shares Dr Pandya.

Using mosquito nets for babies under two months old and repellents or roll-ons for older children, following age-appropriate guidelines. Being aware of peak mosquito times and avoiding outdoor activities during these periods.
Educating children about mosquito bite prevention and hygiene practices, she adds.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.