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Malaria

Malaria is a serious illness caused by parasites. Malaria is a leading cause of illness worldwide, with an estimated 249 million cases reported each year. About 240 people with malaria are reported each year in NYC.

Mosquitoes rarely spread malaria in the U.S. Cases reported in NYC are among individuals who were infected by mosquitoes in areas outside the U.S. such as West Africa and Central and South America.

Anyone who spends time in an area where malaria is present is at risk for getting the infection. Malaria is common in tropical or subtropical areas of Asia, Africa, and Central and South America. The risk of malaria may be different between countries and between areas of a country.

Malaria is spread by the bite of an infected female Anopheles mosquito. Rarely, malaria has been transmitted through blood transfusions or shared needles or syringes. Direct person-to-person transmission does not occur, though it is possible for a pregnant person to transmit the malaria parasite to their fetus.

Symptoms

Malaria can be life-threatening. When symptoms start, they may be similar to the flu. See a doctor immediately if you become ill after returning from an area where malaria occurs.

Symptoms include:

  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Sweats
  • Headache
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Abdominal pain
  • Muscle or joint pain

In some cases, symptoms may progress to:

  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
  • Bleeding
  • Shock
  • Kidney or liver failure
  • Delirium
  • Coma

The time between the mosquito bite and the start of symptoms typically ranges from seven to 30 days. However, it is possible for a person to start having symptoms as late as one year later.

Prevention

Talk to your doctor 4-6 weeks prior to traveling to an area where malaria is common. You will likely need to start taking a medicine to prevent malaria before you travel, during your trip, and an additional one to four weeks after returning, depending on which medication.

To prevent exposure:

  • Limit outdoor activity during the evening and night. That is when the mosquitoes that spread malaria are most active.
  • Use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus when outdoors.
  • Keep mosquitoes out of your residence by installing or repairing window screens and keeping doors closed. If that is not possible, sleep under bed nets treated with insecticide.
  • Visit CDC: Preventing Malaria While Traveling when planning travel to an area where malaria is common.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Malaria is a medical emergency and can become life-threatening if not quickly diagnosed and appropriately treated. Your doctor can diagnose malaria with a blood smear or other tests that identify parasites in the bloodstream.

The medications used to treat you will depend on where you were infected and the type of parasite.

Additional Resources