BY: VALERIE ANN DISMAYA
Even during the dry season, mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue remain a threat.
However, apart from dengue, another fatal disease carried by mosquitoes continues to claim lives — malaria.
Malaria is a serious disease transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito carrying the plasmodium parasite. If not treated immediately, it can lead to death.
Common symptoms include fever, body pain, dizziness, and fatigue.
To raise awareness and strengthen research efforts against the disease, World Malaria Day is observed every April 25, as initiated by the World Health Organization.
The global call to eliminate malaria began as early as the 1950s under the Global Malaria Eradication Program.
According to the Department of Health, malaria cases have decreased in many parts of the Philippines.
However, some provinces, particularly remote areas, still report active cases.
In 2024, Palawan recorded nearly 9,000 cases, with nine fatalities.
To combat this, the government continues to provide free mosquito nets and educate communities.
Research into developing a vaccine against malaria is also ongoing, with initial trials conducted in other countries.
Malaria can often go unnoticed due to vague symptoms but may lead to more severe conditions and outbreaks if left unchecked.
The fight against malaria is not just a battle against mosquitoes; it is a fight to protect lives.
