Malaria is a serious disease caused by a parasite. It can be acquired when an infected mosquito bites it. Malaria is a major cause of death worldwide, but it is eradicated in the United States. The disease is mainly a problem in developing countries with warm climates. If you travel to these countries, you are at risk of becoming infected. There are different types of malaria caused by four related parasites. The most deadly type occurs in Africa, south of the Sahara Desert.
Symptoms of malaria include chills, complaints-like symptoms, fever, vomiting, diarrhea and jaundice. It is diagnosed by a blood test. The disease can be life threatening. However, it is possible to treat the disease with medicines. The type of medication depends on the type of malaria.