HOW TO PREVENT MALARIA IN NEWBORNS AND INFANTS

Introduction

Malaria is a dangerous disease that affects millions of people worldwide, with infants and young children being particularly vulnerable. Malaria is caused by parasites that spread through mosquito bites. Newborns and infants are at high risk of developing severe forms of malaria, which can lead to life-threatening complications.

Infants and young children can get malaria easily because they have weak immune systems. Malaria is a big problem in India, and many cases are reported each year. As a parent or caregiver, it is essential to take steps to protect your little one from this disease. In some parts of the world, the risk of malaria transmission is high, making it crucial for parents and caregivers to take preventive measures.

As a parent, it is important to know how to prevent malaria in your newborn and infant. This article will tell you what malaria is, how to know if your baby has it, and how to treat it. You can read further for some tips to keep your baby from getting malaria. Lastly, we talk about new research on vaccines to prevent malaria in babies.

Reasons why infants get malaria

Malaria happens because of a parasite called Plasmodium. It spreads from one person to another through the bites of female Anopheles mosquitoes. When an infected mosquito bites a person, it sucks the person's blood and also takes in the parasite. The parasite multiplies inside the mosquito, and when it bites another person, it passes on the parasite to that person.

Signs of malaria in infants

Malaria is a serious disease caused by parasites transmitted by infected mosquitoes. Infants are particularly vulnerable to malaria infection and can develop severe and life-threatening complications, if not treated promptly.

Infants may have similar symptoms of malaria to adults, but their symptoms may be more serious. Fever is one of the most common signs of malaria in infants. Some more symptoms include fever, chills, sweats, headache, body aches, nausea, and vomiting. Additionally, they may have other symptoms, such as anaemia, jaundice, and an enlarged spleen.

If you think your infant is suffering from malaria, consult a doctor immediately. If left untreated, malaria can be very dangerous or even fatal. It can progress rapidly and cause serious complications, especially in young children. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve outcomes and prevent severe illness.

Treatment of malaria in infants

Doctors give medicine to babies with malaria to kill the germs that make them sick. The type of medicine and how much they give depends on how sick the baby is, their body weight, and their age. It is important to listen carefully to the doctor and give the baby all of the medicine they need to get better.

How to prevent malaria in infants

Following are some of the tips to protect your child from malaria:

• Use mosquito nets:

Mosquito nets keep mosquitoes away from your baby while they sleep. To make it work well, put it upright and make sure it stays tucked in around the bed.

• Use insect repellents:

Insect repellents, such as Mamaearth Natural Mosquito Repellent Patches, can also keep mosquitoes away from your baby.

• Dress your infant properly:

Dressing your baby in light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts and pants can also help protect them from mosquito bites.

• Keep your home clean:

Get rid of still water around your home because mosquitoes can lay eggs and grow there.

• Avoid high-risk areas:

Avoid places with lots of malaria if you can. If you must go, be careful to avoid mosquito bites.

Vaccines for preventing malaria in infants

Scientists are working on a vaccine to prevent malaria in infants. A vaccine called RTS, S/AS01 has been tested in Africa and partially protects against malaria. It is not available in India yet, but this hints at good progress. Parents should ask their doctor about how to protect against malaria and stay updated with news about the vaccine.

Summary

Malaria can hurt newborns and young children, so parents should use mosquito nets, and insect repellent, and dress them right to stop them from getting it. They must keep the home clean too. If an infant has symptoms of malaria, one should get medical help as soon as possible.

There's no malaria vaccine in India yet, but scientists are working on it. Parents should stay informed and talk to their doctors about how to keep their infants healthy. By being careful and taking preventive steps, parents can protect their newborns from malaria, which can make them very sick or cause death. It is important to prevent malaria to keep babies safe.

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