hafsat M., 6

Hafsat is a 6-year-old girl living with her parents. She is very friendly and aspires to become a lawyer in the future. Two days ago, Hafsat developed a fever and generalized body weakness. When she was brought to our facility, she was examined and diagnosed with severe malaria with prostration. She requires urgent treatment.

The patient was brought to the facility with complaints of fever, generalized body pain and weakness On examination, she was febrile: (38.9°c), pale, acyanosed, anicteric, not dehydrated with hepatomegaly.; Lab investigation@done: PCV: 26%, Genotype: AS • Urinalysis : bilirubin ++, blood ++ MP: Positive EUCr: essentially normal She was admitted to EPU and managed as a case of severe malaria. IV artesunate, intravenous fluid, and paracetamol were given. She was also transfused with 200mls blood, and proper nursing care rendered. After completing of all prescribed médications, admitting symptoms resolved, and was discharged home with oral medications and given a follow-up appointment of 1 week.

Malaria should be treated promptly with the use of antimalarial drugs. If left untreated, it can lead to severe complications and even death. It can result in organ failure, severe anemia, neurological issues, and in some cases, prove fatal, making early diagnosis and treatment crucial for preventing these life-threatening consequences.