Malaria

Malaria is a mosquito-borne parasitic infection causing cycles of fever, chills and sweating. It is diagnosed with a blood test and treated with antimalarial medicines; prompt treatment is important because some types can become severe.

Symptoms

• Fever with chills and shivering
• Sweating
• Headache and body aches
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fatigue

When to see a doctor

• Fever with chills, especially after travel to a malaria area
• Drowsiness, difficulty breathing or very dark urine (urgent)

FAQs

How quickly should malaria be treated?

As soon as possible after diagnosis. Early treatment usually leads to full recovery, while delay can allow severe, life-threatening malaria to develop.