DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF MALARIA Since no precautionary measures are 100% effective, malaria can still be contracted in spite of taking preventive measures. Any person
resident in, or returning from, a malaria risk area who develops fever and flu-like symptoms should immediately consult their medical practitioner and mention that they have been in a
malaria area. Symptoms can occur up to six months after leaving a malaria area.Some of the following symptoms usually occur: fever, rigors, headache, sweating,
tiredness, myalgia (back and limbs), abdominal pain, diarrhoea, lost of appetite, orthostatic hypotension, nausea, slight jaundice, cough, enlarged liver and spleen (sometimes not
palpable). The patients should be tested for malaria. In the majority of cases, examination of blood smears will reveal malaria parasites. If not found initially, further specimens
should be examined by an experienced laboratory before the infection is excluded, as false negatives may be found on initial examination. Treatment should be given
immediately according to the recommendations in the booklet: Guidelines for the Treatment of Malaria, published by the Department of Health, 1996. The guidelines are endorsed by the Medical Association of South Africa. |
