Malaria: Mosquitos suck!

Abstract

Malaria is a mosquito-borne infection that, while uncommon in the USA, it causes significant disease in other parts of the world. Because it is rare in the USA, it can be easily missed if a thorough history is not obtained. Initial symptoms of malaria are generally nonspecific, but fever is present in almost all patients, with the patterns of fever depending on the species of parasite. In cases of severe malaria, neurological symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, disorientation, and seizures may occur. Uncomplicated malaria can be treated with oral agents after diagnosis has been confirmed by laboratory investigations. Complicated or severe malaria is a medical emergency and should be treated aggressively with IV antimalarial agents.