Tackling Malaria with Knowledge and Care: A New Crystal Hospital Perspective

Posted Wednesday, April 23, 2025 at 01:50:03 PM by Administrator

Malaria continues to be one of the most serious public health threats across Africa and the world. In 2023 alone, an estimated 263 million malaria cases and nearly 600,000 deaths were recorded globally. Alarmingly, 94% of all these cases occurred in the WHO African Region, and children under five made up about 76% of the malaria-related deaths. As a frontline health provider, New Crystal Hospital stands committed to fighting this disease through awareness, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

What is Malaria?
Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by Plasmodium parasites, transmitted through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. It is neither airborne nor spread by person-to-person contact, but it can also be transmitted through blood transfusions or contaminated needles.
There are five species of malaria parasites that infect humans, with Plasmodium falciparum being the most dangerous and most common in sub-Saharan Africa. Plasmodium vivax is more prevalent in regions outside Africa.

Recognizing the Symptoms
The onset of malaria symptoms typically occurs 10–15 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. Early signs can be mistaken for other illnesses and may include:
•    Fever
•    Headache
•    Chills
If left untreated, malaria can progress quickly and become life-threatening. Severe symptoms may include:
•    Extreme fatigue
•    Confusion or seizures
•    Difficulty breathing
•    Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
•    Dark or bloody urine
Pregnant women, children under five, travellers, and individuals with compromised immunity (such as those with HIV) are particularly at risk.

Prevention is Better Than Cure
Malaria is preventable. The key strategies include:
•    Avoiding mosquito bites: Using insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), wearing protective clothing, using mosquito repellents, and sleeping in screened or enclosed areas can drastically reduce exposure.
•    Vector control: Indoor residual spraying (IRS) and environmental management help minimize mosquito breeding grounds.
•    Chemoprophylaxis: For travellers or people in high-risk zones, preventive medications should be taken as advised by a healthcare provider.
•    Vaccination: WHO now recommends malaria vaccines like RTS,S/AS01 and R21/Matrix-M, which are being rolled out across Africa. These vaccines are already saving thousands of lives by providing added protection for children in high-risk areas.

Diagnosis and Treatment
Early diagnosis is essential. At New Crystal Hospital, we use WHO-recommended parasite-based diagnostic methods including microscopy and rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) to ensure accurate and timely results.
Treatment depends on several factors such as the type of parasite, the patient’s age and weight, and drug resistance in the area. The most effective treatment for P. falciparum malaria is artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT). Other medicines like chloroquine and primaquine may be used in specific cases.

The Role of Surveillance and Public Education
Surveillance is key to malaria elimination. At New Crystal Hospital, we believe that data-driven public health interventions, combined with strong community education, can help reduce the malaria burden significantly. We encourage prompt testing, adherence to prescribed treatments, and continued use of preventive measures.

Our Commitment
New Crystal Hospital aligns with the WHO’s Global Technical Strategy for Malaria, which aims to reduce malaria cases and deaths by 90% by 2030 and eliminate the disease in at least 35 countries.
As we continue to serve our community, we remain dedicated to:
•    Providing accurate diagnosis and timely treatment
•    Promoting the use of preventive tools such as ITNs and vaccines
•    Educating the public on symptoms and prevention
•    Collaborating with national efforts to monitor, report, and respond to malaria trends

Final Thoughts
Malaria is preventable, treatable, and in many regions, even eliminable. Together with our clients and partners, New Crystal Hospital is proud to contribute to a malaria-free future.
Let us all stay informed, take preventive measures seriously, and seek prompt care when symptoms arise. With continued awareness, action, and faith in science, we can overcome malaria.

For malaria screenings, treatment, or travel consultations, visit New Crystal Hospital today.

Call 0544347239 or 0800180260 (Toll-free) for more information.