Myths about malaria and facts you should know

More than 6,000 people each year die from malaria. Malaria is a dangerous disease caused by parasites from the Anopheles mosquito. If the mosquito bites you, the Plasmodium parasite that causes malaria can be transmitted and released into your bloodstream.

Unfortunately, there are still some myths about malaria that are spread and should be known to the public. If not, the mistakes caused by believing in the myth of malaria could increase the number of malaria victims. What are the myths about malaria that should be known? Check out the explanation below.

The myths about malaria are grossly wrong and the facts

1. You just went to the doctor when you got severe malaria

In fact, malaria is a deadly disease. This disease can rapidly leading to loss of consciousness, seizures, shock, kidney failure, and difficulty breathing.

If you are already experiencing symptoms of malaria, treatment needs to be paid attention to within four weeks. Even if you feel that you are feeling well and getting better, you still need to be vigilant. The reason is, malaria can still develop in your body without realizing it.

2. If you've had malaria before, you become immune and won't get it again

In fact, if you have been exposed to malaria once or even twice, it will not increase your immunity against the disease. This means that you can still get malaria again as long as it is not treated or prevented regularly. Especially if you live in an area where mosquitoes and parasites cause malaria.

3. Myth, eating or putting garlic around you will repel mosquitoes that cause malaria

Don't believe this myth! Some people believe that eating strong-smelling food like garlic or simply putting it near the bed can repel the mosquitoes that cause malaria.

Unfortunately, there is no scientific hill that can patent the myth about malaria. It's a good idea to focus on prevention by using insect repellent creams or sprays. You can also use a mosquito net at night to prevent mosquito bites that cause malaria.

4. Malaria drugs can make you hallucinate

This myth about malaria is not always true. However, it is admitted that malaria drugs can cause various side effects. Especially the drug mefloquine, which can cause nervous system changes and mental health effects. However, these side effects only occur in a very small number of cases.

Who is at risk of getting malaria?

People of all genders, ages, and various health conditions are at risk of contracting malaria. Usually pregnant women, babies, young children, and the elderly are susceptible to malaria because of their weakened immune system.

Traveling to a place or area that is endemic or where malaria has many cases can also increase your risk of contracting it. Before traveling, it is important to know the risks of which areas are experiencing malaria cases. You are also advised to consult a doctor for medication or prevention before traveling.