How malaria can affect the body

The malaria parasite enters red blood cells. As infected cells are damaged, the body can react with cycles of fever, chills and sweating. Headache, muscle aches, tiredness, nausea and reduced appetite may follow. The illness can also lower the body's reserve, making dehydration and weakness more concerning.

More severe disease can interfere with the brain, breathing, kidneys, liver or circulation. Symptoms alone cannot show how deeply the body is affected, which is why a blood test and an examination matter after possible exposure.

Arrange prompt assessment for fever after travel to a malaria area and describe the full symptom pattern. Rest, drink fluids if able, and keep a record of temperature, alertness, urine output and vomiting. Use only medicines recommended for you; treatment depends on the parasite and your health history.

During future travel, reduce mosquito bites with suitable clothing, repellents and screens, and ask about malaria prophylaxis. A travel health consultation can tailor advice to the destination.

Get emergency care for confusion, unusual drowsiness, a seizure, collapse, breathing difficulty, severe weakness, repeated vomiting, yellowing of the eyes, very little urine or a rapidly worsening fever. Do not drive yourself if you are confused or faint.

Ask what the blood test shows, whether repeat testing is needed, which organs need monitoring, how to take treatment, and what improvement should look like. Confirm when to return if fever or weakness continues.