Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by Plasmodium parasites, which are transmitted to humans through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. In Ghana, malaria remains a major public health concern, particularly in regions with high mosquito populations. The disease is preventable and curable but cannot spread directly from one person to another.

Malaria affects people of all ages, but certain groups are more vulnerable, including: • Infants and children under 5 years old • Pregnant women • People with weakened immune systems, such as those living with HIV/AIDS • Travelers or new residents in high-risk areas • Rural communities with limited access to healthcare

No, malaria cannot be transmitted from one person to another through casual contact, coughing, sneezing, or touching. The only way it spreads is through the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito. However, in rare cases, malaria can be transmitted through blood transfusions, organ transplants, or from mother to child during pregnancy.

Malaria is widespread across Ghana, but the risk is highest in areas with warm temperatures, high humidity, and stagnant water, which create ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes. The most affected regions include: • Northern, Upper East, and Upper West regions • Savannah and forest zones with high mosquito breeding sites • Rural communities with poor drainage and sanitation • Coastal areas where standing water accumulates

Certain areas are more prone to malaria due to environmental and climatic factors. Regions with high temperatures, frequent rainfall, and standing water provide the perfect conditions for mosquitoes to breed. Poor drainage systems, inadequate sanitation, and dense vegetation also contribute to higher malaria transmission in these areas.

Symptoms of malaria typically appear 10–15 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. Common symptoms include: • High fever • Chills and sweating • Headache and muscle pain • Nausea and vomiting • Fatigue and weakness In severe cases, malaria can cause anaemia, respiratory distress, or organ failure, especially in young children and pregnant women.

Early diagnosis is crucial to effective treatment. In Ghana, malaria is diagnosed using rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) and laboratory blood tests. Anyone experiencing malaria symptoms should visit a healthcare facility for testing and treatment.

Malaria prevention strategies in Ghana include: • Sleeping under insecticide-treated mosquito nets (ITNs) • Indoor residual spraying (IRS) to kill mosquitoes • Taking antimalarial medication if traveling to high-risk areas • Eliminating stagnant water to reduce mosquito breeding sites • Wearing protective clothing and using mosquito repellents

Yes, malaria can be treated with antimalarial drugs prescribed by healthcare providers. In Ghana, the recommended treatment includes artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs). Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are essential to prevent complications and fatalities.

Yes, Ghana is one of the first countries to introduce the RTS,S/AS01 (Mosquirix) malaria vaccine. The vaccine is recommended for young children in high-risk areas and has shown promising results in reducing malaria cases. It is part of Ghana’s efforts to control and eventually eliminate malaria.