Malaria is a serious and sometimes life-threatening disease caused by Plasmodium parasites. Malaria is most common in tropical and subtropical regions, including parts of Africa, Southeast Asia, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. People who live in or travel to these areas are at higher risk of contracting the disease. In severe cases, malaria can lead to complications like organ failure, severe anaemia, seizures, or even death, particularly in young children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems.
For people traveling to areas with malaria, taking preventive medications (like doxycycline, atovaquone-proguanil, or mefloquine) can help reduce the risk of infection.