Climate change leads to growing risk of mosquito-borne viral diseases–EU agency

protective measures.”

By Jan M. Olsen

COP e N h A g e N , Denmark (AP)— tion of chills, fever, and sweating), which can recur either every 48 or 72 hours depending on the species of Plasmodium.

Severe malaria, however, can cause life-threatening organ failure, the manifestations of which can include kidney failure, seizures, bleeding, mental confusion, and coma.

Sometimes, the parasite can also remain dormant in the liver, and after hibernation (which can take as long as four years), can reenter the bloodstream and start infecting red blood cells, making a person sick.

Prevention and Control

T he DO h said that medical prophylaxis against malaria is now widely available and recommended when going to places with known widespread transmission.

These prophylactic regimens take time to complete; thus, it is important to consult a doctor as early as possible to plan the regimen.

Besides medical prophylaxis, preventive measures include the usual protocols with regards to mosquito-borne disease, such as using long-lasting insecticidal mosquito nets especially during nighttime, wearing long-sleeved clothing and pants especially when going outdoors, using mosquito repellants, and installing screens on doors and windows. With a report from PNA