ABSTRACT
Malaria is a parasitic infection caused by the genus Plasmodium. Malaria is common in tropical countries in Africa, Asia, Oceania and South and Central America. Malaria affects approximately 5% of the world’s population. Malaria can be uncomplicated or severe. Uncomplicated malaria is characterised by high spiking fevers, usually accompanied by chills and rigors. Other signs include headaches, muscular ache, vague abdominal discomfort, lethargy, malaise and loss of appetite. If untreated, the illness may progress to severe malaria and cerebral malaria. The gold standard for testing for malaria is microscopy, which identifies the species and quantities of parasites in the blood. While malaria is preventable, within the hospital environment transmission can continue between patients and staff due to overcrowding and a lack of nets; this allows mosquitoes to continue to bite patients. Severe and cerebral malaria may require admission to critical care. Severe malaria from P. falciparum accounts for approximately 1% of infections.
