WORLD MALARIA DAY

Today, all over the world, people are talking about Malaria. Want to sound like you're in the know? Be part of the cool crowd? Here's what you need to know:

Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by parasites that are transmitted to people through the bites of infected mosquitoes.

In 2010, malaria caused an estimated 660 000 deaths (with an uncertainty range of 490 000 to 836 000), mostly among African children.

Malaria is preventable and curable.

Malaria mortality rates have fallen by more than 25% globally since 2000, and by 33% in the WHO African Region.

Malaria is transmitted exclusively through the bites of Anopheles mosquitoes

Fever, headache, chills and vomiting are often the first symptoms of malaria

The best available treatment is artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT).

Insecticide-treated mosquito nets (ITNs) and Indoor spraying with residual insecticides are two forms of vector control to reduce transmission

There are currently no licensed vaccines against malaria or any other human parasite.

Source: WHO

Now that you've got the down-low...go and spread your knowledge! Be sure to tell me about any World Malaria Day activities you do! For my part, I'll be giving Malaria Lessons in both my classes, and we'll be doing bednet relays during recess!