World Malaria Day

World Malaria Day

 

Malaria is a severe disease which is spread by mosquito bites. It is vital to not only diagnose but treat Malaria as soon as possible, otherwise it can be terminal.

Malaria is caused from a parasite, plasmodium. This particular parasite is generally spread by female mosquitoes. They mainly bite in the night, so having proper protection including nets is necessary. If bitten, the parasites are transferred into your bloodstream resulting in infection.

 

Symptoms:

  • A fever
  • Vomiting & diarrhoea
  • Muscle pains
  • Headaches
  • Sweats & chills

It is important to remember that symptoms generally appear between 7-18 days after being infected. In rare cases, it can take longer for symptoms to show, even up to a year or longer.

If you develop these symptoms after, or even during a trip to the area in which Malaria is found, seek medical attention. A simple blood test can be taken to see if you are infected or not. These results will likely come back on the same day. If you do have Malaria, treatment will be started that day.

 

Areas of high Malaria risk:

  • Africa & Asia
  • Central & South America
  • Haiti & the Dominican Republic
  • The Middle East
  • Pacific Islands

 

Malaria can be avoided with the ABCD approach:

  • Awareness of the risk where you are travelling to
  • Bite prevention with insect repellent and a mosquito net
  • Check whether you need to take Malaria prevention tablets
  • Diagnosis from a medical profession if symptoms occur

 

To learn more life-saving skills attending a First Aid course could be beneficial for you. We hold regular First Aid At Work courses in central Cardiff. There are two levels of courses available depending on the level of risk in your workplace. Click these links to find out the dates of upcoming courses and to book places online:

Alternatively, many employers prefer First Aid training to be carried out at their own workplace so we can provide a quote for us to come to you. 

Here's how to get in touch and find out more information:

 

St David’s First Aid Training – keeping you safe and legal.