Gideon B., 3

Gideon is a three-year-old boy and the youngest of four children. He lives with his parents and siblings in a financially struggling household. His mother is a housewife, while his father depends on irregular casual labour, with his modest earnings often insufficient to meet the family’s basic needs. Gideon is normally a cheerful, active and playful child. He had been well until he suddenly developed a high fever, excessive sweating, vomiting and unusual irritability. His condition worsened rapidly; he became increasingly weak and lethargic, could not eat or drink properly, and was noticeably less responsive and active than usual. Concerned, his father asked his mother to take him to Bokoli Sub-County Hospital while he searched for casual farm work to raise money for treatment. At the hospital, his mother explained their financial difficulties and was informed about support from Helpster Charity. Gideon was promptly assessed and investigated and diagnosed with malaria and dehydration. Due to the severity of his illness, he was admitted for treatment, rehydration and close monitoring.

Gideon was taken to Bokoli Sub-County Hospital after developing a high fever, vomiting, excessive sweating, and signs of dehydration. Upon arrival, he was promptly received and attended to by the medical team. After examination and laboratory tests, he was diagnosed with Malaria and Dehydration. Because his condition was serious, the clinician admitted him to the hospital ward for close monitoring and treatment. Gideon was started on antimalarial medication to eliminate the malaria infection and intravenous (IV) fluids to replace the fluids lost through fever, vomiting, and sweating. He also received supportive care while the doctors and nurses closely monitored his progress. After three days of treatment, Gideon responded well. His fever subsided, the vomiting stopped, his hydration improved, and he gradually regained his strength and appetite. Having made a good recovery, he was discharged home with oral medication to complete his treatment and continue recovering at home.

Gideon was diagnosed with severe malaria after presenting with high fever, excessive sweating, vomiting, irritability, poor feeding, weakness and reduced activity. At three years of age, severe malaria can deteriorate rapidly and lead to dehydration, severe anaemia, convulsions, low blood sugar or organ dysfunction. His admission for prompt antimalarial treatment, rehydration, supportive care and close monitoring was necessary. With timely treatment and a good clinical response, his prognosis is favourable, with full recovery expected.