About malaria

Malaria typically is found in warmer regions of the world — in tropical and subtropical countries. Most malaria symptoms are caused by:
• The release of merozoites into the bloodstream
• Anemia resulting from the destruction of the red blood cells
• Large amounts of free hemoglobin being released into circulation after red blood cells break open
Because the parasites that cause malaria affect red blood cells, people can also catch malaria from exposures to infected blood, including:
• From mother to unborn child
• Through blood transfusions
• By sharing needles used to inject drugs
Malaria is one of the leading causes of disease and death in the world. It is estimated that there are 300 to 500 million new cases every year, with 1.5 to 2.7 million deaths worldwide.