Malaria Day is commemorated on April 25 every year, It aims to raise more awareness a bout the vector-borne diseases. Children are most vulnerable and here is how to keep them safe.
Malaria is a rising health concern across the globe. The World Health Organisation (WHO) states that, “Not only does malaria continue to directly endanger health and cost lives, but it also perpetuates a vicious cycle of inequity. People living in the most vulnerable situations including pregnant women, infants, children under 5 years of age, refugees, migrants, internally displaced people, and Indigenous Peoples continue to be disproportionately impacted.”
Malaria mostly spreads due to the infected bite of female Anopheles mosquitoes. It may further get transmitted via contaminated needles, blood transfusion etc.
World Malaria Day is commemorated on April 25 to spread more awareness and ensure enhanced health etiquettes for better access to facilities.
Malaria Symptoms: Fever, chills and headache are mild symptoms but severe symptoms include fatigue, confusion, seizures, and difficulty in breathing. Children fall under the most vulnerable category due to their weak immune systems. Here are a few precautionary measures to take and keep children safe from getting infected.
6 WAYS TO PREVENT CHILDREN FROM MALARIA
There are several ways to prevent malaria a home and outside as well.
- Use mosquito repellants creams, sprays etc.
- One can also put mosquito nets around the bedding to prevent kids to be bitten by infected mosquitoes
- Wear long sleeve dress, and full lowers to avoid parasitic bites whenever going outside.
- Stay away from corners, bushes and stagnant water or other breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Don’t allow water to be stagnant as it is a breeding ground for mosquitoes
- Apart from these, maintaining healthy hygiene, lifestyle and good dietary practices is important fight Malaria. Increase fluid intake and have a balanced diet with proper nutrients and have immunity-boosting food like fruits, nuts and seeds etc.
- Have proper Vitamin D