Malaria - The Formidable Enemy of Humanity

Abstract

Malaria, a disease caused by protozoan parasite of the genus Plasmodium, is an ancient enemy of the human race. Despite enormous efforts to control, it is still a main cause of morbidity and mortality in many endemic countries of the world, particularly Africa, South of Sahara. Malaria seems to be unstoppable due to lack of an effective vaccine, acquisition of drug-resistance by malaria parasite, and insecticide resistance by Anopheles mosquitoes. In this scenario, along with search for novel preventive approaches, adequate health facilities, health literacy and awareness among people are required to control and eliminate this formidable disease from society.