Malaria is a preventable and treatable, but life-threatening disease. It is a blood infection transmitted to humans by pregnant Anopheles mosquitoes (“What is malaria?” 2014). According to Medical News Today, “The word malaria comes from the 18th century Italian mala meaning 'bad' and aria meaning 'air.' Most likely, the term was first used by Dr. Francisco Torti, in Italy, when people thought that the disease was caused by stale air in swampy areas” (“What is malaria?” 2014). Symptoms include chills, fatigue, headache, high fever, nausea, sweating, tiredness and vomiting. These symptoms also differ in severity depending on the case. Approximately 40% of the world's population is at risk of contracting malaria in their lifetime. It's interesting to note. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explains: “Each year in the United States, approximately 1,500 people are diagnosed with malaria. The vast majority were infected abroad” (“What is malaria?” 2014). There are five types of malaria parasites: Plasmodium vivax, Plasmodium malariae, Plasmodium ovale, Plasmodium falciparum, and Plasmodium knowlesi (“What is malaria?” 2014). . Plasmodium vivax, malariae and ovale are all milder forms of the disease. The deadliest form of the parasite is Plasmodium falciparum. Just like many other life-threatening diseases, it is most commonly found in sub-Saharan Africa. Patients with this form are more likely to become seriously ill and subsequently die from the infection. Additionally, Plasmodium knowlesi, another malaria parasite, causes disease in macaques, a type of monkey, but can also infect humans (About Malaria 2014). The infection process is similar to that of septicemic plague, as both infect the bloodstream. However, due to the development of malaria... half of paper... it is necessary to take precautionary measures to ensure that they do not become infected while travelling, for example by taking prescribed anti-malarial drugs. Those living in these malaria-affected areas should ensure they avoid mosquito bites and use vector control such as insecticide-treated mosquito sprays and nets. Medical News Today explains, “If malaria is diagnosed and treated early, the duration of infection can be significantly shortened, which in turn reduces the risk of complications and death” (“What is Malaria?” 2014). Malaria?" 2014. Medical News Today. http://www.medicalnewstoday.com (last accessed 14 April 2014). “About Malaria” 2014. Malaria No More. http://www.malarianomore.org/ (last accessed 14 April 2014). Shannon, G. “Malaria”. 2014. Lecture given at the University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, April 12, 2014.