A parasite delivered by mosquitoes still kills hundreds of thousands each year. Malaria is a febrile illness caused by Plasmodium parasites transmitted through the bites of infected Anopheles mosquitoes.

Parasites multiply in the liver and then infect red blood cells, causing cycles of fever, chills, and anemia. Severe malaria can produce cerebral complications, organ failure, and death, especially in young children and non-immune travelers. Diagnosis relies on microscopy or rapid antigen tests.

Artemisinin-based combination therapies are the mainstay of treatment. Prevention includes insecticide-treated nets, indoor spraying, chemoprophylaxis for travelers, and, increasingly, vaccines in endemic areas. Resistance to drugs and insecticides remains a persistent threat that demands ongoing surveillance.

• Parasitic disease transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes
• Causes cyclical fever, anemia, and potentially severe organ damage
• Diagnosed by blood microscopy or rapid tests
• Prevented by nets, spraying, drugs, and vaccines