World Malaria Day and India's role
History of malaria and need
for quinine tablets
Malaria was also prevalent in Africa, where it is believed to have originated. The disease had a significant impact on the development of African societies, contributing to population decline, and impeding economic and social progress. Malaria also played a significant role in the history of colonization, with Europeans dying in large numbers from the disease in the tropics. The discovery of the malaria parasite and its transmission by mosquitoes is credited to the British physician Sir Ronald Ross, who made the breakthrough in 1897. This discovery led to the development of better control measures, including mosquito control, and the use of anti-malarial drugs such as quinine. In recent years, significant progress has been made in the prevention and control of malaria, with a decrease in the number of cases and deaths. However, malaria still remains a significant public health problem, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where the disease is most prevalent. Efforts are ongoing to develop new and more effective control measures, including vaccines, to eradicate this disease.
How Government of India
observe Malaria Day in India
World Malaria Day is observed on April 25th every year to create awareness about the disease, its prevention, and the measures to be taken to control and eradicate it. The Government of India actively participates in observing Malaria Day through various initiatives and programs. The National Vector Borne Disease Control Program (NVBDCP) is responsible for the prevention and control of vector-borne diseases in India. As a part of their efforts to observe Malaria Day, the NVBDCP organized awareness campaigns, educational seminars, and health camps in various parts of the country.
In addition, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, launches various programs and initiatives to control and eradicate malaria. These include providing free diagnosis and treatment to patients, distributing Insecticide-treated bed nets, and conducting indoor residual spraying. The government also collaborates with international organization's like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Roll Back Malaria Partnership to exchange information, best practices, and strategies for malaria control and elimination. Overall, the Government of India is committed to creating awareness about malaria, reducing its incidence, and providing effective treatment and care to those affected by the disease.
What precautions are taken
by the Government of India for Malaria?
The Government of India takes several precautions to prevent and control the spread of malaria. These include:
1. Vector control measures: The government implements vector control measures, such as the use of Insecticide-treated bed nets, indoor residual spraying, and Larvicides to control the mosquito population.
2. Diagnosis and treatment: The government provides free diagnosis and treatment for malaria patients through government hospitals and health centers.
3. Health education and awareness: The government conducts health education and awareness campaigns to educate people about the importance of preventing malaria, its symptoms, and treatment.
4. Surveillance and monitoring: The government conducts regular surveillance and monitoring of malaria cases to identify hotspots and take appropriate measures to control the spread of the disease.
5. Research and development: The government invests in research and development to develop new tools and strategies for malaria prevention and control.
Overall, the Government of India takes a comprehensive approach to prevent and control malaria, which includes vector control measures, diagnosis and treatment, health education and awareness, surveillance and monitoring, and research and development.
Malaria & a part of Quinine
Quinine is an anti-malarial drug that has been used for centuries to treat malaria. It is derived from the bark of the Cinchona tree and works by killing the malaria parasites in the blood. Quinine tablets are still used today in some parts of the world to treat malaria, although other anti-malarial drugs are more commonly used. While quinine is effective in treating malaria, its use has declined in recent years due to the availability of newer anti-malarial drugs that are more effective and have fewer side effects. However, quinine is still recommended in some cases, such as in areas where the malaria parasites are resistant to other drugs or for the treatment of severe malaria. In addition to its use in the treatment of malaria, quinine has also been used to prevent malaria in some cases, although this is not a common practice. Quinine is not recommended for routine use as a preventive measure for malaria, as there are other drugs that are more effective and have fewer side effects.
Overall, while quinine tablets can be effective in treating malaria, their use has declined in recent years due to the availability of newer and more effective anti-malarial drugs. The use of quinine tablets should be based on the recommendation of a healthcare professional and should only be used when necessary.
There are several things
that you, as a common man, can do to avoid malaria disease:
1. Use insect repellents: Apply insect repellents on your skin and clothing to keep mosquitoes at bay. Use a repellent that contains DEET, Picaridin, or IR3535.
2. Wear protective clothing: Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, preferably in light colors, to cover your skin and reduce the chances of getting bitten by mosquitoes.
3. Use bed nets: Use bed nets that have been treated with insecticides to protect yourself from mosquitoes while sleeping.
4. Keep your surroundings clean: Make sure to keep your surroundings clean and free of standing water, which is a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
5. Get rid of mosquito breeding sites: Get rid of any stagnant water in and around your home, such as in flower pots, bird baths, or old tires, to prevent mosquitoes from breeding.
6. Take anti-malaria medication: If you are traveling to an area where malaria is prevalent, take anti-malaria medication as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
7. Seek medical attention: If you experience any symptoms of malaria, such as fever, chills, headache, or muscle pain, seek medical attention immediately.
Overall, taking these precautions can help you reduce your risk of contracting malaria. It is important to take these steps even if you have previously had malaria, as it is possible to get the disease more than once.