Disease Focus Areas

Malaria

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Malaria

In 2022, there were an estimated 249 million malaria cases worldwide, with the majority occurring in the tropical regions, making this disease a priority area for Sabin.

Malaria Prevalence in 2022

249M

In 2022, there were an estimated 249 million malaria cases reported. (WHO, 2024)

608k

Malaria resulted in 608,000 deaths in 2022. (WHO, 2024)

What is malaria? 

Malaria is a preventable and curable life-threatening disease caused by parasites of the Plasmodium genus. 

How does a person get infected with malaria? 

Malaria is transmitted through the bites from infected Anopheles mosquitoes and can also be spread via blood transfusions or contaminated needles.   

What are the symptoms? 

Malaria symptoms typically present as fever, headache, and chills appearing 10-15 days after transmission. To prevent progression to severe disease, treatment should begin as soon as possible. If not treated within 24 hours of fever onset, some cases of malaria can lead to severe complications or death.   

Who is at higher risk of severe malaria? 

Those at higher risk of severe malaria include children under 5, people who are pregnant, people with HIV/AIDS, and non-immune travelers. In children, severe symptoms can include anemia, respiratory distress, or cerebral malaria, a condition in which blood vessels to the brain become blocked which can cause swelling and potential brain damage. Adults with severe symptoms may also experience multi-organ failure.  

Where have cases of malaria been found? 

In 2022, there were an estimated 249 million malaria cases worldwide, with the majority occurring in the tropical regions. The World Health Organization (WHO) African Region is disproportionately affected, accounting for 94% of malaria cases and 95% of malaria deaths.   

How can people protect themselves against infection? 

People can protect themselves from malaria by avoiding mosquito bites through measures such as using insect repellents, sleeping under insecticide-treated mosquito nets, and wearing protective clothing. In high-risk areas, taking preventative antimalarial medications is also recommended. 

Is there a vaccine or treatment for the disease? 

Malaria can be both prevented and treated. The RTS,S vaccine is recommended for children in regions with moderate to high malaria transmission. Antimalarial medications are also available, and early treatment is crucial to prevent severe illness and death.