FAISALABAD (GL News)– Malaria claims hundreds of thousands of lives yearly, but simple precautions can prevent this deadly disease.
The Medicine Department of the Faisalabad Medical University, in collaboration with the Pakistan Society of Internal Medicine, organized an awareness walk on the occasion of World Malaria Day.
President of the Pakistan Society of Internal Medicine Faisalabad chapter, Prof. Dr. Amir Shaukat, and Secretary Dr. Muhammad Irfan led the walk which was attended by dozens of doctors and medical staff.
What Causes Malaria and How It Spreads
Talking to reporters at the end of the talk, Dr. Muhammad Irfan explained that malaria is caused by a special parasite called Plasmodium, which is transmitted to humans only through the bite of an infected mosquito.
He clarified that Malaria is not contagious and cannot spread through direct contact with an infected person. Sitting next to a person suffering from this disease poses no risk of infection, he added.
Global Impact: Millions Affected by Malaria Each Year
“Every year, around 243 million people worldwide contract malaria, and about 600,000 deaths occur due to the disease,” he claimed. He said that the highest mortality rates are seen among children under five, pregnant women, and HIV/AIDS patients.
Highlighting the purpose of World Malaria Day, Dr. Irfan said the goal is to create awareness and mobilize people to launch efforts toward a malaria-free world. He claimed that malaria has been eliminated from 36 countries, and it is crucial to eradicate this disease globally.
Public Health Advice to Prevent Malaria
He urged the public to avoid standing water, which serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Before going into open areas, he advised people to wear long-sleeved shirts. People should also use mosquito nets and sprays at home.
Prof. Dr. Amir Shaukat emphasized that malaria typically begins with high fever, body aches and shivering. He noted that treatment of malaria is very simple, but for its diagnosis, it is necessary to consult a qualified doctor.
Why Timely Treatment Is Crucial
He said that the sooner the diagnosis and treatment of malaria is started, its complications can be avoided, otherwise the disease can prove fatal.
