Malaria
Reviewed by the Lonia Medical Team
Malaria is a mosquito-borne infection common across Nigeria. Typical symptoms are fever, chills, headache, body aches, and tiredness, usually starting 10–15 days after a bite. It is treatable, but should be confirmed by a test and managed by a doctor — untreated malaria can become severe.
Overview
Malaria is caused by Plasmodium parasites spread through the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito. It is one of the most common causes of fever in Nigeria. Most cases are uncomplicated and respond well to prompt treatment, but malaria can progress quickly — especially in children, pregnant women, and people with weak immunity — so it should never be ignored. A blood test (RDT or microscopy) confirms the diagnosis before treatment.
Symptoms
- Fever, often with chills and sweating
- Headache and body or muscle aches
- Tiredness and weakness
- Nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite
- Sometimes diarrhoea or abdominal discomfort
When to see a doctor
- Fever that lasts more than a day or keeps returning
- Symptoms during or after travel to a malaria area
- You are pregnant, or it's a young child or older adult
Seek urgent care if you have
- Confusion, drowsiness, or difficulty waking
- Repeated vomiting or inability to keep fluids down
- Difficulty breathing, very dark urine, or convulsions
Prevention & self-care
- Sleep under an insecticide-treated net
- Use mosquito repellent and screen windows
- Clear stagnant water around the home
Not for emergencies. This page is general health information, not a diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a qualified doctor about your own health. If you have severe symptoms — chest pain, difficulty breathing, heavy bleeding, fainting, confusion, or a high fever that won't come down — go to the nearest hospital immediately. Telemedicine is not for medical emergencies.
Consult a general practitioner on Lonia
Dr. Maro Okine
General Practice
Dr. Allen Fente
General Practice
I am Dr Fente Allen Erighanyoyefa (Bsc, MBBS, MPH,MSc, PhD). I hold a Bsc in Human Physiology from University of PortHarcourt, Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor Surgery from Niger Delta University and a Masters in Public Health Degree( MPH) and Master of Science in Human Physiology from the University of PortHarcourt, and Doctor of Public Health(DrPH) . Professionally, i work as a lecturer/Resident Doctor in the Bayelsa Medical University, Yenagoa and also part time job with Diete koki Memorial Hospital, Yenagoa as Medical officer. Proficient with the use of microsoft office word, Excel and powerpoint and with the use of SPSS for data management.
Dr. Enaanasebh Living
General Practice
I am a Medical Officer based in Abuja, Nigeria. I provide clinical care across a range of acute and general medical presentations, bringing a patient-centred approach to every encounter. I am committed to delivering safe, evidence-based care to patients and their families.
Frequently asked questions
- Can a doctor treat malaria online in Nigeria?
- An online doctor can assess your symptoms, advise whether you need a malaria test, and — once malaria is confirmed — guide treatment and issue a prescription you can fill for delivery. Severe malaria needs in-person hospital care.
- How soon do malaria symptoms appear?
- Usually 10–15 days after an infected mosquito bite, though it can be longer. Any unexplained fever in a malaria area should be checked.