Latest news with #Plasmodium
Time of India
a day ago
- Health
- Time of India
Is it really dengue? Diseases mimicking dengue fever
Fever , rash, and body aches? In dengue-prone areas, these symptoms almost instantly make people think of dengue fever. However, experts warn that this can be a dangerous assumption. A range of illnesses, known as dengue mimickers , can present with nearly identical signs and symptoms. Mistaking these conditions for dengue may delay correct treatment, worsen patient outcomes, and even put lives at risk. Many of these dengue mimickers are caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites, and require very different treatments. Some can be more severe than dengue if left undetected. The overlap in symptoms makes accurate diagnosis challenging, especially during dengue outbreaks, when the disease is top of mind for both doctors and patients. By understanding what these dengue mimickers are, and how they differ from dengue, patients can get timely and correct medical care. Dengue mimickers: Viral infections that confuse diagnosis Several viruses can act as dengue mimickers, creating overlapping symptoms that complicate diagnosis. Chikungunya virus often presents with fever, rash, and severe joint pain, in fact, the joint swelling can be worse than in dengue. Zika virus can also cause rash and fever, but it is often associated with conjunctivitis and, in pregnant women, serious risks to the unborn baby. Seasonal influenza may bring high fever, headaches, and muscle aches that resemble dengue, but is usually accompanied by respiratory symptoms like cough and sore throat. The challenge for doctors is that these viral dengue mimickers often occur in the same regions and seasons as dengue, making lab confirmation essential before starting treatment. Dengue mimickers: Bacterial infections you shouldn't overlook Some bacterial illnesses can be equally deceptive. Leptospirosis , spread through water contaminated with animal urine, can cause high fever, muscle pain, and red eyes, all common in dengue. Unlike dengue, leptospirosis often affects the kidneys and liver early on, making it vital to detect quickly. Typhoid fever , caused by Salmonella typhi bacteria, can mimic dengue with prolonged fever, abdominal discomfort, and weakness. However, a distinctive symptom is a slow-rising fever pattern and gastrointestinal disturbances. These bacterial dengue mimickers require targeted antibiotics, so mistaking them for dengue can delay life-saving care. Dengue mimickers: Parasitic and other infectious look-alikes Malaria , caused by Plasmodium parasites, is one of the most critical dengue mimickers. The fever in malaria often follows a cyclical pattern, high fever followed by chills and sweats. Anemia, fatigue, and sometimes jaundice can also occur. Without timely diagnosis and anti-malarial treatment, malaria can become life-threatening. Other parasitic infections, like amebiasis in severe systemic forms, may cause overlapping symptoms with dengue, though they are less common as primary mimickers. Dengue mimickers: Liver and autoimmune conditions Non-infectious diseases can also be dengue mimickers. Hepatitis A, B, and E can cause fever, fatigue, and rash-like skin changes due to liver inflammation. Autoimmune disorders such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) may present with joint pain, rashes, and fever, easily mistaken for dengue without proper testing. In both liver diseases and autoimmune dengue mimickers, specific lab tests such as liver function panels or autoantibody profiles are necessary to reach a correct diagnosis. Why recognizing dengue mimickers is crucial The consequences of misdiagnosing dengue mimickers are serious. A patient with malaria who is treated as if they have dengue will not receive the necessary antimalarial drugs in time. A person with leptospirosis might suffer organ damage if antibiotics are delayed. Healthcare professionals in dengue-endemic areas must remain alert, use laboratory confirmation wherever possible, and consider a wide range of possible causes for dengue-like symptoms. Patients, too, should be aware that not every fever with body ache is dengue and should insist on proper testing before assuming the cause. Ultimately, understanding and identifying dengue mimickers is not just about better medical accuracy, it's about saving lives. Also read| Why people in their 30s and 40s are collapsing during workouts: A cardiologist explains the hidden risk
NDTV
6 days ago
- Health
- NDTV
Malaria Cases On Rise In Delhi: Expert Shares Tips To Stay Safe This Monsoon
A rise in vector-borne diseases has been observed in Delhi this monsoon. According to recent data from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), the national capital has recorded 124 malaria cases, the highest in the last decade. Additionally, a total of 277 dengue cases and 18 chikungunya cases have been reported so far. While both malaria and dengue can be dangerous and potentially fatal, malaria is more likely to cause severe illness and death globally. Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by parasites. It is transmitted to humans through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. Malaria is more prevalent in tropical regions due to the hot and humid weather conditions. A rise in malaria cases is typically observed during the monsoon season as increased humidity and stagnant water bodies provide ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes. "Malaria is a mosquito-borne infection from Plasmodium species. The unprecedented rains, waterlogging, and poor sanitation are some of the factors that contribute to a surge in malaria cases at this time of year, every year. And unfortunately, it is the elderly and the children who are more likely to have complications because of all the malaria-related illnesses that spread in the rainy season," Dr. Monica Mahajan, Director - Internal Medicine, Max Healthcare. Symptoms of malaria Individuals infected with malaria may initially develop mild symptoms. Later, within 10-15 days of getting bitten by an infected mosquito, the following symptoms are commonly reported: Fever Chills Fatigue Headaches Muscle ache Chest pain Cough Seizures "Malaria typically presents as high-grade fever with shivering, with headache, body pains and along with that the complications of malaria can involve various systems of the body, including causing jaundice, brain involvement or kidney involvement," Dr. Mahajan added. Malaria can also cause severe illness, especially when left untreated. Infants, children under 5 years, pregnant women, and people with pre-existing health conditions are also at a higher risk of severe illness. Severe symptoms include: Extreme fatigue Impaired consciousness Breathing difficulties Dark-coloured urine Jaundice Abnormal bleeding In some cases, it may also cause brain damage, organ failure and even death. How to stay safe "Preventing mosquito bites and eliminating breeding grounds are two effective strategies for preventing malaria. Cover yourself up with full-sleeved clothes and trousers, use DEET-based mosquito repellents and avoid stepping out during peak hours." "Dengue, malaria, typhoid and jaundice are quite common during the monsoon. In case you have any high-grade fever in this rainy season, then definitely get yourself tested for malaria. Any high fever does not mean it is viral. It is of utmost importance that you visit the doctor, get the required blood tests done, and are started on the appropriate medication," Dr. Mahajan added. "If malaria is not treated on time, it can be fatal. So it is important that we keep in mind that this is the rainy season, malaria cases are on the rise, and every fever needs to be monitored consciously," she advised. Other than mosquito bites, blood transfusions or use of contaminated needles may also transmit malaria.
Indian Express
27-07-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
Knowledge Nugget: AdFalciVax and the fight against malaria — What you must-know for UPSC Exam
Take a look at the essential events, concepts, terms, quotes, or phenomena every day and brush up your knowledge. Here's your UPSC Current Affairs Knowledge Nugget for today on AdFalciVax and malaria. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has invited the country's vaccine manufacturers to partner with it to launch and sell a malaria vaccine, AdFalciVax, that its Regional Medical Research Centre, Bhubaneshwar, has developed. In this context, let's know about this new vaccine and malaria. 1. AdFalciVax is a chimeric recombinant vaccine — a type of vaccine that uses different parts of the genes of a pathogen (in this case, Plasmodium) to create target proteins that trigger an immune response after being injected. 2. AdFalciVax uses two types of target proteins to prevent the spread of infection in two different ways. ↪ It uses the circumsporozoite protein (CSP) to prevent infection in the person who has been immunised. The CSP is produced during the sporozoite stage (when a parasite can infect a new host) and the liver stage (when a parasite enters liver cells, multiplies, and then infects red blood cells) of the parasite. 'Any immune response generated against these stages protects the immunised person from getting the infection.' Subhash Singh, project manager for development of the vaccine at the ICMR-Regional Medical Research Centre, Bhubaneswar told The Indian Express. ↪ The vaccine also uses the Pro6C protein, a fusion of parts of two different proteins — Pfs230 and Pfs48/45 — produced by Plasmodium falciparum. This protein prevents the spread of infection in the community. 3. Researchers have found that AdFalciVax provided more than 90% protection against infection in mice. The candidate vaccine has yet to undergo rigorous human trials, and the preliminary results have been obtained only through testing on animals. 4. The ICMR wants to partner with a company that can further develop its candidate vaccine, carry out human clinical trials, and scale up for commercial production. Although the ICMR will share the technology of developing AdFalciVax with the chosen company, it will continue to hold the intellectual property rights. Any intellectual property rights generated during the collaboration will be held jointly by the ICMR and the company. 5. Notably, AdFalciVax mainly targets two parts of Plasmodium falciparum, a pathogen that is the most common source of malaria in humans. In India, however, the disease is caused by Plasmodium vivax against which AdFalciVax is ineffective. To combat malaria, scientists have been working to develop a vaccine for decades but with limited success. Recently, two vaccines—RTS,S and R21—were approved for use, but their efficacy, at 75%, is quite low. That's why the announcement about ICMR's candidate vaccine has given new hope in the fight against the disease. World Malaria Day is observed every year on 25th April by the World Health Organisation to raise awareness and drive action against malaria. The theme for World Malaria Day 2025 is 'Malaria Ends With Us: Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite.' 1. Having claimed millions of lives, malaria has been one of the deadliest diseases in human history. Currently, the disease kills about four lakh people annually, according to World Health Organization (WHO) figures. 2. Malaria is a parasitic infection transmitted by mosquitoes, typically causing symptoms such as fever, chills, night sweats, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. In some cases, it can lead to severe complications such as seizures, fluid in the lungs, organ damage, and death. 3. It is most endemic in Africa — Nigeria, Congo, Tanzania, Mozambique, Niger, and Burkina Faso together account for more than half the yearly deaths. 1. India has demonstrated significant progress in reducing malaria cases and associated mortality in the country's high-endemic states, according to the findings of the World Health Organisation's (WHO) 'World Malaria Report 2024′. 2. 'India exited the HBHI [high-burden to high-impact] group officially in 2024 due to significant progress in reducing the malaria incidence and mortality observed in its high-endemic states,' the report observed. 3.'Nationwide, the number of estimated malaria cases in India decreased from 6.4 million in 2017 (the year before the HBHI's introduction) to 2 million cases in 2023 (69 per cent decrease). Similarly, the estimated malaria deaths decreased from 11,100 to 3,500 (68 per cent decrease) during the same period,' it said. 4. The HBHI refers to a targeted WHO initiative aimed at the most acutely malaria-impacted regions of the world, including several countries in Africa. Widespread resistance of malarial parasite to drugs like chloroquine has prompted attempts to develop a malarial vaccine to combat malaria. Why is it difficult to develop an effective malaria vaccine? (UPSC CSE 2010) (a) Malaria is caused by several species of Plasmodium (b) Man does not develop immunity to malaria during natural infection (c) Vaccines can be developed only against bacteria (d) Man is only an intermediate host and not the definitive host (Sources: India registers 'significant progress' in reducing malaria cases: WHO, WHO report says India reduces malaria caseload, deaths by 69% each) Subscribe to our UPSC newsletter. Stay updated with the latest UPSC articles by joining our Telegram channel – Indian Express UPSC Hub, and follow us on Instagram and X. 🚨 Click Here to read the UPSC Essentials magazine for July 2025. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at
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First Post
29-06-2025
- Health
- First Post
Summer sets the trap: Doctors call for pre-monsoon malaria vigilance
As summer sets in, doctors warn that heat, stagnant water and increased outdoor exposure are driving malaria risks higher. With the WHO flagging seasonal shifts and behavioural patterns as key contributors, timely prevention and awareness can help avert pre-monsoon outbreaks. read more As temperatures rise across India, health experts are raising alarms over malaria transmission during summer, an often-overlooked seasonal danger. While monsoon months are traditionally linked to vector-borne diseases, medical experts say that summer lays the groundwork for intensified malaria outbreaks, creating perfect conditions for the Anopheles mosquito, the vector of the Plasmodium parasite. Firstpost talked with Dr Satish Koul, Senior Director & Unit Head, Internal Medicine, Fortis Memorial Research Institute (Gurugram) and Dr Tushar Tayal, Consultant, Internal Medicine, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram to understand how summer conditions increase malaria risk and what people can do to protect themselves. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD 'The summer heat, combined with pre-monsoon showers, speeds up the parasite's development inside mosquitoes. It also increases outdoor exposure and water accumulation—both major contributors to malaria risk.' How summer creates a perfect storm According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), malaria is a preventable and treatable disease, but still poses a grave threat, especially in tropical and subtropical regions. The rising summer temperatures (especially between 20–30°C) are ideal for both mosquito survival and the Plasmodium parasite's incubation. Dr Tayal said 'Improper drainage, stagnant water in coolers, gutters, and discarded containers—all typical during Indian summers—become prime mosquito breeding sites, especially in areas with poor sanitation.' Adding to the risk is human behaviour—greater outdoor activity during evenings and early mornings coincides with peak Anopheles mosquito biting times. In regions where people lack access to bed nets, mosquito repellents, or screened housing, exposure increases dramatically. High-risk populations and delayed diagnosis Children, pregnant women, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses or compromised immunity are particularly vulnerable. Dr Koul pointed out that heat-related dehydration and fatigue can further impair the body's immune response, making infections more severe. What complicates detection is that early malaria symptoms—fever, body aches, chills—closely mimic heat exhaustion and viral fevers. In rural or underserved communities, this often leads to delayed treatment or reliance on self-medication, heightening the risk of complications and community-level spread. Seasonal mobility and travel risk Summer holidays often see increased travel to forested or rural areas—many of which are malaria-endemic zones. According to Dr Tayal, 'Travel to such locations without prophylaxis or awareness increases the chances of contracting the disease. Migrant labour movement can also contribute to new outbreaks.' Clinical advice for prevention Both experts stress proactive prevention as key. Recommendations include: Eliminating stagnant water from all containers weekly. Using insecticide-treated bed nets and mosquito repellents consistently. Wearing protective clothing in the evenings and early mornings. Seeking medical attention promptly for any unexplained fever or flu-like symptoms. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Consulting a physician for antimalarial prophylaxis if traveling to endemic areas. Climate Change and Future Outlook Climate change adds another layer of complexity. With rising temperatures and unpredictable rainfall, malaria zones may expand and transmission seasons may lengthen. As such, community awareness, infrastructure improvements, and preventive care must be at the forefront of India's malaria strategy. As the summer heat intensifies, experts warn that tackling malaria requires not just monsoon vigilance but year-round, seasonally adaptive public health action.
Time of India
19-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
10 common monsoon diseases that might cause serious health problems; know symptoms and how to protect yourself
The rainy season offers a refreshing break from the scorching summer, but it also brings a rise in illnesses due to damp conditions, stagnant water, and poor hygiene. These factors create the ideal breeding grounds for bacteria, viruses, and mosquitoes. From waterborne infections to mosquito-borne diseases, health risks multiply during this time. Increased humidity can also weaken the immune system, making people more vulnerable. Being aware of the most common seasonal illnesses can help with early detection and prevention. Below are ten common diseases to watch out for during the rainy season to ensure you and your family stay safe and healthy. Diseases that surge during the rainy season: Symptoms and ways to stay safe Disease Cause Symptoms How to protect yourself Dengue Fever Aedes mosquitoes breeding in stagnant water High fever, severe body pain, rashes, weakness Remove standing water, use mosquito repellent, wear full-sleeved clothes, sleep under bed nets Malaria Anopheles mosquitoes carrying Plasmodium parasites Chills, sweating, fever, vomiting Use insecticide-treated nets, apply mosquito spray, stay indoors at dusk, ensure proper drainage Leptospirosis Contact with floodwater contaminated with infected animal urine Fever, muscle pain, red eyes Avoid wading in floodwaters, wear boots, maintain hygiene, keep surroundings rodent-free Chikungunya Mosquito-borne viral infection Fever, severe joint pain Eliminate mosquito breeding grounds, use repellents and protective clothing, clean water containers Typhoid Fever Contaminated food and water Prolonged fever, weakness, abdominal pain, constipation Drink boiled/filtered water, avoid street food, wash hands, get vaccinated Cholera Ingestion of food/water with Vibrio cholerae bacteria Severe diarrhea, dehydration Drink clean/boiled water, wash hands often, maintain food hygiene, avoid raw food Hepatitis A Viral infection from contaminated food or water Jaundice, nausea, fatigue, abdominal pain Drink clean water, wash produce, eat hygienically cooked food, get vaccinated Common Cold & Flu Viral infection triggered by monsoon humidity Sore throat, sneezing, cough, fever Maintain distance from sick people, wash hands, strengthen immunity, keep surroundings dry Fungal Infections Damp conditions promoting fungal growth Itchy rashes, athlete's foot, ringworm Keep skin dry, change wet clothes, use antifungal powder, avoid sharing towels/clothes Gastroenteritis Bacterial/viral infection via contaminated food/water Diarrhea, vomiting, stomach cramps Eat freshly prepared food, drink safe water, maintain hygiene, avoid roadside food Common rainy season diseases , their symptoms and prevention Dengue Fever Cause: Spread by Aedes mosquitoes that breed in stagnant water Symptoms: High fever, severe body pain, rashes, weakness Dengue fever is a viral infection transmitted by a mosquito that thrives on standing water available during the monsoon. Sudden onset of high fever with intense body and joint pain are typically the first signs. Soon after, skin rashes and intense weakness develop. Immediate medical care and adequate hydration are needed to prevent developing complications of dengue hemorrhagic fever. How to protect yourself: Remove standing water around the house (flowerpot, coolers, buckets). Employ mosquito repellants and use full-sleeved clothing. Sleep in bed nets against mosquitoes. Keep windows and doors screened or closed at dawn and dusk. Malaria Cause: Transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes due to Plasmodium parasites Symptoms: Chills, sweating, fever, vomiting Malaria is another mosquito-borne disease that culminates in rainy seasons. The parasites are inoculated into the blood by bites from mosquitoes, and they create cyclical fever patterns accompanied by chills and vomiting. Precautionary measures like sleeping under a mosquito net, applying repellents, and keeping the place clean and free from standing water can reduce risk to a large degree. How to protect yourself: Use insecticide-treated bed nets. Spray mosquito repellents indoors and outdoors. Stay indoors during peak mosquito hours. Maintain proper drainage to avoid mosquito breeding. Leptospirosis Cause: Bacterial infection from water with animal urine Symptoms: Fever, muscle pain, red eyes Leptospirosis occurs when you come into contact with urine-tainted water from infected animals, especially in floods. It produces flu-like symptoms like fever, body pain, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). Avoid wading through floodwaters, practice good hygiene, and consult a doctor if symptoms appear. How to protect yourself: Do not walk through standing or contaminated water. Use protective footwear in heavy rain or cleaning. Practice hygiene and wash feet clean after exposure. Keep rodents out of your home and environment. Chikungunya Cause: Viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes Symptoms: Fever, severe pain in the joints Chikungunya is dengue-like but distinguished by prolonged arthritis-like joint pain. It is transmitted by the same mosquitoes that transmit dengue and most often causes acute fever with blinding joint inflammation. Rest, fluids, and pain control assuage symptoms in the absence of antiviral medication. How to protect yourself: Prevent bites from mosquitoes through repellents and screens. Eliminate breeding sites such as uncovered water tanks. Wear arms and legs covers when stepping outside. Clean water storage vessels regularly. Typhoid Fever Cause: Spread by contaminated food and water Symptoms: Prolonged fever, weakness, pain in the abdomen, constipation Typhoid is a life-threatening bacterial infection that is common during monsoons due to poor sanitation. It causes prolonged high fever, abdominal pain, and gastrointestinal issues like constipation. Prevent typhoid by practicing food hygiene, drinking purified water, and taking the vaccine in risk-affected areas. How to protect yourself: Drink only purified or boiled water. Avoid raw salads, street food, and unclean restaurants. Wash hands with soap thoroughly before eating. Vaccinate in exposed areas. Cholera Cause: Eating contaminated food or water containing Vibrio cholerae bacteria Symptoms: Severe diarrhea, dehydration Cholera is an acute diarrheal illness that can result in sudden dehydration and death if not treated. It usually results from water or food contaminated with the illness in dirty environments. Oral rehydration therapy promptly is crucial for recovery, alongside water safety and sanitation measures. How to protect yourself: Drink only filtered, clean, or boiled water at all times. Keep yourself clean and dispose of waste safely. Wash hands often, particularly after using the toilet. Avoid consuming raw or undercooked food. Hepatitis A Cause: Viral infection via contaminated water or food Symptoms: Jaundice, fatigue, nausea, pain in the abdomen Hepatitis A is an infection of the liver caused primarily by drinking contaminated water or food. The symptoms include jaundice, weakness, and gastric disturbance. Vaccination and proper sanitation practices are the best ways to prevent infection. How to protect yourself: Avoid consuming food from dirty food stalls or hawkers. Eat neatly cooked food and clean water. Wash vegetables and fruits thoroughly. Immunization is strongly advised in endemic areas. Common Cold and Flu Cause: Viral infection caused by the temperature and humidity Symptoms: Sore throat, sneezing, cough, fever Monsoon weather promotes the spread of respiratory viruses, and a greater number of people get colds and flu. The symptoms are typically mild but cause inconvenience. Rest, excessive fluid intake, and proper hygiene measures, including frequent hand washing, allow for rapid recovery. How to protect yourself: Do not be in close contact with affected persons. Strengthen your immunity through a balanced diet and fluids. Cover mouth with tissues or the elbow while coughing/sneezing. Keep your environment clean and dry. Fungal Infections Cause: Fungi that thrive in damp environments Symptoms: Itchy scaly lesions on skin; athlete's foot; ringworm The rainy season's humid weather is an ideal environment for fungal skin and nail infections. Fungal infections like athlete's foot and ringworm are common in this category. Keeping the skin dry, wearing loose clothing, and using antifungal creams or powder prevent and treat these infections. How to protect yourself: Dry the skin and dress in breathable clothes. Immediately change out of wet clothing. Apply antifungal powders or creams if susceptible to infection. Avoid sharing towels, socks, or shoes. Gastroenteritis Cause: Bacterial or viral infection through contaminated food or water Symptoms: Diarrhea, vomiting, stomach cramps Gastroenteritis causes inflammation of the stomach and intestines and results in vomiting and diarrhea. It is usually picked up through unhygienic food preparation or drinking contaminated water. Proper food hygiene and hydration are needed to avoid the most serious complications. How to protect yourself: All food must be freshly prepared and cooked. Don't consume exposed food from street vendors. Keep food in clean, cover containers. Keep drinking water clean and don't consume ice from unknown sources. Also Read | Bryan Johnson's routine reveals the future of healthy aging and live happily - know how he looks younger than his age One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
