Malaria remains one of the leading causes of illness and death among children in many parts of Africa. Young children are especially vulnerable because their immune systems are still developing.
Malaria is caused by parasites transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito, usually at night. After the bite, symptoms can appear within a few days.
The most common early sign is fever but malaria does not always begin with very high temperatures. In children, it may start with a mild fever, weakness, poor appetite or irritability. Some children develop vomiting, diarrhoea or body aches which can easily be mistaken for other illnesses.
As the illness progresses, symptoms may become more severe. These include persistent high fever, chills, sweating, severe weakness and difficulty feeding. In serious cases, children may develop convulsions, confusion, difficulty breathing or extreme drowsiness. These are danger signs that require urgent medical attention, as severe malaria can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
One of the challenges with malaria is that its early symptoms can resemble many other common childhood illnesses. For this reason, parents are advised to seek medical care early whenever a child develops a fever, rather than assuming it is something mild.
Prevention remains the most effective defence against malaria. The use of insecticide-treated mosquito nets is one of the most reliable methods. Children should sleep under a net every night, even when mosquito activity appears low.
Other preventive measures include keeping the home environment clean, eliminating stagnant water where mosquitoes breed, installing window screens and wearing protective clothing in the evening. In some settings, preventive medication may be recommended for high-risk groups, but this should only be used under medical guidance.
Parents should also ensure that children receive prompt treatment if malaria is diagnosed. Completing the full course of prescribed medication is essential to fully clear the infection and prevent recurrence.
