Malaria Free : Egypt
Egypt was officially declared ‘malaria-free’ by the World Health Organization (WHO).
- Malaria is an acute febrile illness caused by Plasmodium parasites, which are spread to people through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes.
- It is a life-threatening disease primarily found in tropical countries.
- It is not contagious and cannot spread from one person to another; the disease is transmitted through the bites of female Anopheles mosquitoes
- Five species of parasites can cause malaria in humans and 2 of these species – Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax– pose the greatest threat.
- The first symptoms of malaria usually begin within 10–15 days after the bite from an infected mosquito.
- Fever, headache and chills are typically experienced, though these symptoms may be mild and difficult to recognize as malaria.
- In malaria endemic areas, people who have developed partial immunity may become infected but experience no symptoms.
- Vector control is the main approach to prevent malaria and reduce transmission.
- It is preventable and curable.
- Early diagnosis and treatment of malaria reduces disease and prevents deaths, and also contributes to reducing transmission.
