Ilustración de un mosquito hembra del género Anopheles alimentándose de sangre humana, principal vector de la malaria. Incluye un recuadro con gametocitos de Plasmodium falciparum y Plasmodium vivax (formas masculinas y femeninas). Diseñada para concienciar sobre la transmisión de la malaria.
Ilustración que muestra un mosquito del género Anopheles, vectores de la Malaria.

World malaria day

Malaria, is an infectious disease caused by parasites of the genus Plasmodium and transmitted to humans by female mosquitoes of the genus AnophelesIt is one of the most important tropical diseases in the world, especially in regions of Africa, Asia, and Latin America, and every April 25 is commemorated World malaria day to raise awareness about one of the oldest and most persistent infectious diseases.

There are five main species of Plasmodium that infect humans:

    • Plasmodium falciparum: The most lethal and prevalent in Africa.
    • Plasmodium vivax: Common in Asia and Latin America.
    • Plasmodium malariae, Plasmodium ovale and Plasmodium knowlesi: Less common, but capable of causing disease.

After entering the human body after the bite of a female mosquito, the parasite multiplies and invades red blood cells, causing the characteristic symptoms of the disease.

Malaria affects more than 90 countries, concentrated in tropical and subtropical regions. Sub-Saharan Africa concentrates the 95% of cases and most deaths. The WHO in 2021 reported at least 247 million cases worldwide and 619,000 deaths.

Current efforts aim to eradicate the disease through a series of vital steps. Diagnosis, which is done through antigen testing, microscopy, or PCR; treatment, which includes antimalarial drugs; and prevention, which includes control of mosquito vector species, preventive medication, vaccination, and education of the population at risk.

This illustration seeks to give visibility to the disease and highlight the fight against it, the advances in its control, and the measures necessary to eliminate it. Its objectives include: raise awareness, promote prevention and treatment, and support research.

Year: 2021
Technique: Digital illustration.
Illustration type: Scientific.
Type of project/Client: Personal.