Malaria in Children: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention

Introduction

Malaria in children is a serious illness caused by a parasite spread by mosquitoes. Children are more at risk because their bodies are still growing. In many countries, malaria in children leads to sickness and sometimes even death. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), most malaria deaths happen in children under five. Early detection and proper care can save lives. This blog explains the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of malaria in children. You will also find tips for home care and when to seek help.

Symptoms of Malaria in Children

Malaria can look different in children than in adults. However, some signs are common. Early recognition is important. Here are the main pediatric malaria symptoms:

Fever that comes and goes

Chills and shivering

Headache

Feeling tired or weak

Nausea or vomiting

Loss of appetite

Muscle or joint pain

Fast breathing or cough

Yellow skin or eyes (jaundice)

Seizures (in severe cases)

Sometimes, symptoms can be mild at first. But, they may get worse quickly. If your child has a fever and lives in or has visited a malaria area, malaria could be the cause.

Causes and Transmission

Malaria in children is caused by a parasite called Plasmodium. This parasite enters the body through the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito. Not every mosquito carries malaria, but in some regions, the risk is high. After a bite, the parasite travels to the liver and then into the blood. Children can get malaria if they are bitten by these mosquitoes. Rarely, malaria can spread through blood transfusions or from mother to baby during birth. However, mosquito bites remain the main cause.

Diagnosis Methods

Early malaria diagnosis in children is key to fast treatment. Doctors use several methods to confirm malaria:

Blood test: A small blood sample is checked for malaria parasites under a microscope.

Rapid diagnostic test: This test uses a drop of blood and gives results in 15–20 minutes.

Both tests are safe for children. If your child has a fever and malaria is possible, see a doctor right away. Quick diagnosis helps prevent serious problems.

Treatment Options

Malaria treatment options depend on the type of parasite and how sick the child is. Doctors usually prescribe antimalarial medicines. Some common medicines include artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs). For severe cases, treatment may start in a hospital. Children may need fluids, fever control, and close monitoring. It is important to finish all medicines, even if your child feels better. This helps prevent the malaria from coming back. Never give your child medicine without a doctor’s advice.

Prevention Strategies

Malaria prevention for kids is very important, especially in high-risk areas. Here are some ways to protect your child:

Use insecticide-treated bed nets every night

Dress children in long sleeves and pants, especially at night

Apply mosquito repellent on exposed skin (safe for children)

Keep windows and doors closed or use screens

Remove standing water near your home to reduce mosquito breeding

Follow your doctor’s advice about preventive medicines if traveling to malaria areas

Even with these steps, malaria can still happen. But, prevention lowers the risk a lot.

Lifestyle and Home Care Guidance

After malaria treatment, children need rest and care at home. Here are some tips:

Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids

Offer healthy, easy-to-digest foods

Let your child rest as much as needed

Watch for any new or worsening symptoms

Give all medicines exactly as prescribed

With good home care, most children recover well. However, regular follow-up with your doctor is important.

When to Seek Medical Help

Sometimes, malaria in children can become severe very quickly. Seek medical help right away if your child:

Has trouble breathing

Cannot keep fluids down

Becomes very weak or unresponsive

Has seizures or fits

Shows yellow skin or eyes

Has a high fever that does not go down

Early treatment saves lives. Do not wait if you are worried about your child’s health.

Consult a pediatrician for personalized advice and early malaria diagnosis.