Malaria: a clear guide to diagnosis and care

Malaria is caused by parasites transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes. Symptoms may include fever, chills, headache, tiredness and muscle aches, and they may come and go. A recent trip is useful information, but illness can appear after returning home.

A blood test can help detect the parasite and identify its species. The result, examination and travel history guide treatment. Because different species and illness levels call for different plans, a general fever medicine is not enough to clear malaria.

If malaria is possible after travel, seek medical assessment promptly and mention every country or region visited. If testing is positive, take the prescribed antimalarial on schedule and finish the instructed course. Keep fluids down where possible, rest, and note temperature, symptoms and doses.

Tell the clinician about pregnancy, allergies, liver or kidney disease, and all medicines or supplements. Ask whether a repeat blood test is required. For a future trip, a travel health consultation can address mosquito precautions and malaria prophylaxis separately.

Use emergency services for confusion, a seizure, fainting, breathing difficulty, severe drowsiness, repeated vomiting, inability to drink, yellow eyes or skin, very little urine or sudden deterioration. Return urgently if fever or chills recur during or after treatment.

Children, pregnant people and those with serious long-term conditions should obtain advice quickly. Bring the test result and medication packaging to urgent care if available.

Ask what test is needed, whether a species was identified, which treatment fits your result, how to take it safely, when symptoms should improve, whether follow-up testing is planned, and which warning signs mean emergency care.