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Malaria
Severity: High

Malaria is the deadliest mosquito-borne disease globally, killing approximately 600,000 people per year — predominantly young children in Sub-Saharan Africa. It is caused by Plasmodium parasites transmitted through the bite of infected Anopheles mosquitoes, which feed primarily at night.

Sub-Saharan Africa accounts for over 90% of global cases, but risk also exists in parts of South and Southeast Asia, Central and South America, and the Middle East. Risk is concentrated in rural and semi-rural areas — major cities in endemic countries often have minimal transmission.

Unlike viral mosquito-borne diseases, malaria is both preventable with prophylactic medication and treatable if caught early. Travelers to endemic regions should consult a travel clinic for antimalarial prescriptions before departure.

Pathogen
Parasite

Anopheles gambiae, An. funestus (Africa), An. stephensi (South Asia/Middle East), An. dirus and An. minimus (Southeast Asia) — all night-biting species.

Risk Groups
Who is at risk
High

Young children under 5, pregnant women, and travelers without immunity are most vulnerable. Around 600,000 people die from malaria each year. The right precautions and prophylaxis make all the difference.

Symptoms
Cyclical fever with chills and sweatingSevere headacheMuscle aches and fatigueNausea, vomiting, diarrheaAnemia and jaundice in severe casesSymptoms may appear 7-30 days after infection
Precautions
Take prescribed antimalarial prophylaxis before, during, and after travel
Sleep under insecticide-treated bed nets
Use DEET repellent at dusk and dawn
Wear long sleeves and pants in the evening
Stay in screened or air-conditioned accommodation
Seek urgent medical care if fever develops within 3 months of return
Recommended Protection

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WHO Malaria Fact SheetCDC Malaria Prevention

Countries with Malaria

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Disease information is sourced from WHO, CDC, ECDC, and OpenDengue. This is not medical advice — consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.

Malaria — Mosquito-Borne Disease | Mozzwise