Prevention of malaria solely depends upon the prevention from mosquitoes bite. The following are the effective preventive measures:

(A) Control Insect Breeding (Larval and Pupa Stage)

• All breeding places should be filled and covered. 
•  Avoid storage of water in tyres, pots, coolers and tanks. Regular cleaning (weekly) of such articles is important to prevent mosquito breeding.  
• Use of larvivorous fish like gambusia or guppy in ornamental tanks, fountains and other places.
• Use of chemical pesticides like Abate in potable water.

(B) Individual Preventions

• Use an intact mosquito net while sleeping.
• Use mosquito repellent creams, liquids, coils and mats. 
• Use Indoor Residual Spray (IRS) with insecticides. 
• Use Aerosol space spray during day time.
• Use biocides.
• Get houses fitted with wire mesh.
• Use bed nets treated with insecticide
• Cover your body properly.

 (C) Prevention in Community 

• Malathion fogging during outbreaks.
• The place around the Hand Pump should be properly cemented, along with drainage system.
• Sensitizing and mobilizing the community to eradicate Anopheles breeding sites.

(D) Prevention during Travel

• Before planning your travel, find out the malaria risk in that area and take the advice from doctor before visiting that area.

 (E) Prevention of Malaria during Pregnancy

• Use of treated nets/LLINs (Long Lasting Insecticidal Nets).
• Take all personal preventive measures as mentioned above.

Malaria can be diagnosed by the doctor based on the patient’s history (fever with chill and rigor) followed by the clinical assessment (enlargement of liver and spleen).

Microscopic examination:

The most preferred and reliable diagnosis of malaria is microscopic examination of blood films as all of the four major parasite species can be distinguished easily.

Immuno chromatographic test:

This is also called as Malaria Rapid Diagnostic Test. This test uses finger-stick and a drop of venous blood. The reading can be assessed visually as the presence of colored strips on the dipstick. It takes a total of 15–20 minutes to complete the procedure.

Molecular methods:

Molecular methods are available such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR). It is more accurate than microscopy.

References:

www.nhs.uk
www.cdc.gov
www.mohfw.nic.in

The treatment chosen will depend upon whether the patient has vivax malaria or falciparum malaria as diagnosed by the blood test, age of the patient, the pregnancy status of the female patient and location of the patient.

For further details on schedule of treatment and follow up : nvbdcp.gov.in/malaria-new.html

Reference: www.mrcindia.org