Malaria, often seen as an acute mosquito-borne illness, has consequences that extend far beyond the high fever and chills it is commonly known for. Emerging evidence and expert insights reveal that malaria can quietly pave the way for chronic health issues—particularly anaemia, malnutrition, and long-term immune suppression.
This World Malaria Day, Dr. Venkat Ramesh, Infectious Disease Specialist at Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad, sheds light on malaria’s often-overlooked aftermath and the need for sustained care even after the infection subsides.
How Malaria Weakens the Body’s Defenses
Malaria is caused by Plasmodium parasites, which enter the human body through mosquito bites and primarily target the liver and red blood cells. The immune system mounts a fierce response, but the intense effort can leave it depleted. Even after the infection is cleared, the body’s immune resilience may remain compromised, making individuals more vulnerable to other diseases.
According to the World Malaria Report 2023, there were an estimated 249 million malaria cases globally in 2022, leading to 608,000 deaths. India accounted for approximately 1.4% of the global burden, with malaria-induced complications like anaemia still affecting large portions of the population—especially children and pregnant women.
Malaria and Anaemia: A Dangerous Duo
One of the most prevalent complications of malaria is anaemia, caused by the destruction of red blood cells by malaria parasites. This leads to a significant drop in haemoglobin levels, resulting in persistent fatigue, dizziness, and reduced immunity.
“In high-transmission areas, chronic malaria-related anaemia is alarmingly common among children and pregnant women,” says Dr. Ramesh.
“This not only affects a child’s physical growth but also impairs their cognitive development.”
Anaemia resulting from malaria can become a chronic condition, especially when individuals do not receive adequate nutritional or medical support during and after their illness.
The Vicious Cycle: Malaria and Malnutrition
Malaria also impacts nutritional health. The infection increases metabolic demands while simultaneously reducing appetite and impairing nutrient absorption. This combination often leads to malnutrition, especially in children who are already nutritionally vulnerable.
The link works both ways: malnutrition weakens the immune system, making it easier for malaria to take hold, while malaria worsens nutritional deficiencies, trapping individuals in a cycle that is difficult to break without targeted intervention.
The Case for Post-Malaria Care
Treating the immediate symptoms of malaria is only the first step. Long-term recovery requires comprehensive post-malaria care to prevent lingering health issues like anaemia, malnutrition, and recurrent infections.
Effective post-malaria strategies include:
Monitoring haemoglobin levels to detect anaemia early
Nutritional rehabilitation with supplements and balanced diets
Community education to raise awareness about post-malaria health needs
Training healthcare workers to identify and manage chronic effects
“Recovery doesn’t end when the fever breaks,” says Dr. Ramesh. “Post-infection care can make the difference between recurring illness and full recovery.”
Conclusion: Toward a Holistic Malaria Strategy
Malaria is more than just an infectious disease—it is a chronic health disruptor with ripple effects on nutrition, immunity, and overall well-being. While India has made significant strides in reducing malaria cases and deaths, addressing its hidden, long-term impacts is essential to sustain progress.
By investing in post-malaria care, strengthening community awareness, and integrating malaria recovery into chronic disease management, we can reduce the long-term burden of the disease.
A malaria-free future is within reach—but only if we treat the disease not just as an acute illness, but as a long-term health challenge that demands holistic and sustained solutions.