Malaria Causes and Important Risk Factors in Summer

Plasmodium parasites are the cause of malaria, a disease spread by female Anopheles mosquitoes carrying the infection. Malaria can cause serious complications, such as organ failure and death, if treatment is not received.

Summertime Malaria Causes

1. Visiting Places with a High Risk

Exposure can be increased by summer vacations or family trips to rural or forested areas, particularly in locations where malaria is endemic. These areas might have higher mosquito densities, limited access to preventive care, and insufficient vector control.

2. Immunity Weakness

Because their immune systems are weakened, children, pregnant women, and the elderly are especially vulnerable to severe malaria. Complication risk can be further increased by pre-existing conditions and malnutrition.

3. Stagnant Water Accumulation

Mosquitoes thrive in stagnant water pools created by leaking pipes, rain, or open containers. Increased water use during the summer months frequently results in unnoticed standing water near dwellings, which increases the danger of mosquito infestation and the spread of malaria.

4. Wearing Short or Sleeveless Clothes

People often wear light, skin-revealing clothing because of the heat, especially in the evenings. Because Anopheles mosquitoes are most active during peak activity hours, such as dawn and dusk, this enhances skin exposure and facilitates insect bites.

5. Poor Hygiene and Sanitation

Waterlogged areas can occur in urban and semi-urban settings due to inadequate waste management and clogged sewers. Mosquitoes use these as nesting places. The likelihood of mosquito bites is increased by inadequate housing or open windows without suitable netting, which also make it simple for mosquitoes to enter.