Malaria symptoms look like many other illnesses. Here’s what to watch for, and why a test beats a guess.
The common signs
Uncomplicated malaria typically brings fever, chills and sweating (often in cycles), headache, body aches, weakness, nausea, and loss of appetite. In children: refusal to eat, unusual sleepiness, or paleness.
Why you should test first
Typhoid, flu and other infections mimic malaria. Treating ‘malaria’ that isn’t malaria delays the right treatment and wastes money. A rapid diagnostic test (RDT) gives an answer in about 15 minutes at any pharmacy or clinic.
If the test is positive
Start a full course of a WHO-recommended ACT such as Artemether + Lumefantrine, take it with food, and complete all 3 days. Most people feel much better within 48 hours — but finish the course regardless.
Danger signs — go to hospital now
Convulsions, confusion, extreme weakness, inability to sit or stand, persistent vomiting, dark urine, or yellowing eyes. Severe malaria can become life-threatening within hours, especially in children and pregnant women.