Hyderabad, Apr 24: With malaria continuing to pose a seasonal public health risk in Hyderabad, Fernandez Hospital is urging pregnant women and families to remain vigilant, as malaria during pregnancy can lead to serious complications for both mother and baby. Malaria is caused by the Plasmodium parasite and transmitted through the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito. While it affects all age groups in India due to unstable transmission patterns, pregnancy increases vulnerability because of reduced immunity. Among the different types, Plasmodium falciparum is the most dangerous, with the ability to affect the placenta and disrupt the baby’s growth.
“Malaria in pregnancy is not just another fever; it can have significant consequences if not detected and treated early,” said Dr Tarakeswari Surapaneni, Chief Medical Director, Fernandez Hospital. “Timely testing, appropriate treatment, and preventive measures can make a critical difference to outcomes for both mother and baby.”
Risks to the Mother and Baby
Pregnant women, particularly in their first pregnancy or early trimesters, are at higher risk of severe malaria. The infection can lead to:
• Anaemia and increased risk of bleeding during delivery
• Low blood sugar levels
• Severe complications such as seizures, breathing difficulty, or organ failure in advanced cases
For the baby, malaria can result in:
• Miscarriage in early pregnancy
• Growth restriction, stillbirth, or neonatal death in later stages
• Rarely, congenital malaria in newborns
Recognising the Symptoms
Common symptoms include fever, chills, headache, nausea, vomiting, and body aches. Severe cases may present with seizures, confusion, or breathing difficulty.
“Any fever during pregnancy should never be ignored. Early testing is essential, especially in endemic areas or after travel,” Dr Tara added.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Malaria can be diagnosed through blood tests, including microscopy and rapid diagnostic tests. If symptoms persist despite an initial negative result, repeat testing is advised.
Treatment during pregnancy is safe when guided by a doctor:
• Plasmodium vivax infections are treated with chloroquine
• Plasmodium falciparum infections are managed with appropriate therapies depending on the trimester
• Severe cases require hospital admission and intensive care
Prevention is Key
Preventive measures remain the most effective way to reduce risk:
• Use mosquito repellents and insecticide-treated bed nets
• Wear protective clothing to minimise exposure
• Avoid travel to high-risk areas where possible
• Seek medical advice for preventive medication if travel is unavoidable
The World Health Organisation also recommends preventive treatment in certain high-risk settings after the first trimester.
Importance of Antenatal Care
Regular antenatal check-ups play a crucial role in early detection and management. Increased monitoring helps reduce complications and ensures timely intervention.
“Pregnancy already brings many changes to a woman’s body. With the added risk of infections like malaria, consistent antenatal care and awareness become even more important,” Dr Tara emphasised.
Fernandez Hospital continues to advocate for awareness, early diagnosis, and evidence-based care to ensure safer pregnancies and healthier outcomes for mothers and babies.
