Malaria is an infectious disease caused by Plasmodium, a parasite that is transmitted through the bites of infected anopheles mosquitoes. According to the Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention, or CDC, about 1500 cases of malaria are diagnosed each year in the United States, and most cases are found in travelers and immigrants returning from countries where malaria transmission is common.
Chlorine Dioxide Uses
According to the CDC, chlorine dioxide is used to disinfect drinking water. Chlorine dioxide kills waterborne parasites and other microorganisms that cause diseases such as typhoid, cholera and amebiasis. The CDC recommends that international travelers carry chlorine dioxide tablets while traveling to countries with poor hygiene and inadequate sanitation.
Corine Dioxide and Malaria
Disinfecting drinking water using chlorine dioxide helps prevent waterborne diseases but does not prevent malaria because malaria is not caused by contaminated water. The CDC states that Malaria is transmitted through the bites of infected mosquitoes.
Prevention and Treatment of Malaria
According to the CDC, Malaria may be prevented through the use of repellents, treated bed nets and anti-malaria drugs. The CDC recommends that international travelers take anti-malaria drugs 1 week before travel and up to 4 weeks after travel In order to prevent malaria. Malaria is treated using drugs such as chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine, mefloquine and quinine.
Symptoms of Malaria
According to MayoClinic.com, symptoms of malaria include headache, high fever, muscle aches, nausea and vomiting, and usually appear between 10 and 15 days after the mosquito bite. If not treated, malaria can quickly become life-threatening.
Complications of Malaria
MayoClinic.com states that untreated Malaria may cause destruction of red blood cells, leading to anemia. Malaria may also cause swelling and rupture of the spleen. Other complications of malaria include liver failure, kidney failure, meningitis and respiratory failure.
