Hidden battle: Asymptomatic malaria, impact

Malaria is a Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD) spread by mosquitoes.

While most people are familiar with the symptoms of malaria, such as fever, chills and flu-like symptoms, there is a lesser-known form of the disease that can be just as deadly: asymptomatic malaria.

Asymptomatic malaria infection refers to the presence of asexual parasites in the peripheral blood without symptoms. These are important parasite reservoirs and could sustain transmission in the population.

It is imperative to know that the life cycle of the parasites needs a host for completion. Therefore, without an asymptomatic malaria patient carrying the parasite (sporozoite), the life cycle cannot be completed.

Asymptomatic malaria can lead to a range of complications, such as anaemia and organ failure, with long-term effects on the health and well-being of individuals, especially children and pregnant women.

Most malaria diagnoses are channelled towards symptomatic patients since they are believed to be at higher risk.

Moreover, detecting asymptomatic malaria requires more sensitive diagnostic tools such as Polymerase Chain Reaction, often unavailable due to resources.

Further, considering our cultural mindset, where people see any disease as a treat only when there are symptoms, how can we improve our surveillance systems?

Treated mosquito nets alone cannot be effective in the control of malaria disease. Intense public awareness is required.

It may look expensive. However, we can’t allow ignorance to take hold. In conclusion, asymptomatic malaria is a hidden but significant obstacle in the fight against malaria.

Addressing this challenge requires attention and multifaceted approaches. By understanding the risk, taking steps to prevent and treat the disease and shining light on this silent threat, we can move closer to the ultimate goal of malaria eradication.     

Obuobi Jude Adu,
University of Health and Allied Sciences,
Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.
E-mail: Judeobuobi3@gmail.com.