According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 700 million people worldwide are infected with mosquito-borne diseases each year, resulting in more than 1 million deaths.
Both malaria and dengue are serious diseases transmitted by mosquitoes. In 2022 alone, there were approximately 250 million cases of malaria, leading to 620,000 deaths. In 2023, over 3 million dengue cases were reported globally.
The symptoms of these two diseases often overlap, making it challenging to distinguish between them. This raises the question: do you have malaria or dengue? Here’s how to identify them based on their symptoms.
Malaria is transmitted through the bite of the female Anopheles mosquito. Symptoms typically appear 10 to 14 days after infection, and ignoring them can be dangerous. It is crucial to see a doctor as soon as symptoms emerge. The common symptoms of malaria include:
Fever that typically occurs every 3-4 days
Chills accompanying the fever
Sweating after the fever
Headaches
Muscle pain
Fatigue and weakness
Nausea and vomiting
Red rashes on the skin
Dengue is transmitted by female Aedes mosquitoes, which usually bite during the day or just before dusk. A notable risk associated with dengue is a decrease in platelet count, which can become dangerous if not addressed promptly. Symptoms of dengue generally appear 3 to 14 days after infection and include:
Sudden onset of fever
Severe headaches and pain in joints and muscles
Nausea and vomiting
Decrease in platelet count
Red rashes appearing on the skin
Bleeding from the nose and gums
Understanding the symptoms of both diseases is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional immediately.