Gift O., 5

Gift would like to be a police officer when he grows up. He likes to see the policemen march and also likes to see them entertain official guests in government functions. He lives with his mother. He started complaining of hotness of body, chills and bouts of loose stool on the day before he was brought to the hospital.

The patient arrived with complaints of a sudden high fever, accompanied by multiple episodes of vomiting and one episode of loose stool. On examination, the patient appeared unwell, with S1 and S2 heart sounds present and generalized abdominal tenderness. Laboratory tests revealed Plasmodium falciparum (++), while stool analysis was normal. The random blood sugar (RBS) was 3.6 mmol/L. The patient was prescribed antimalarial medication for three days and was discharged in stable condition. A follow up phone call to the mother confirmed that Gift is doing well

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. Gastroenteritis can cause fluid loss through vomiting and diarrhea, leading to dehydration. Severe dehydration can be life-threatening, especially in infants, the elderly, or individuals with weakened immune systems. Continued gastrointestinal symptoms may prevent the absorption of essential nutrients, potentially leading to malnutrition. To treat gastroenteritis, especially if it's due to a viral infection, the focus is typically on supportive care, which includes gradually reintroducing a regular diet once vomiting and diarrhea subside. In some cases, antiemetic (anti-nausea) or antidiarrheal medications may be prescribed, but their use should be carefully monitored, especially in certain situations.