Types of malaria

There are five main types of malaria:

1. Plasmodium falciparum: This is the most severe and deadliest form of malaria. It is responsible for the majority of malaria-related deaths worldwide and is prevalent in Africa.

2. Plasmodium vivax: This type of malaria is less severe than P. falciparum but can cause relapses as the parasite can remain in the liver for extended periods. It is prevalent in Asia, Latin America, and parts of Africa.

3. Plasmodium malariae: This type of malaria is less common and usually causes milder symptoms. It can persist in the bloodstream for a long time and cause a relapsing form of the disease.

4. Plasmodium ovale: This type of malaria is similar to P. vivax and can also cause relapses. It is mainly found in West Africa.

5. Plasmodium knowlesi: This type of malaria is primarily a parasite of monkeys, but it can be transmitted to humans, causing severe and potentially fatal malaria. It is found in Southeast Asia.

It's important to note that the symptoms, severity, and complications of malaria can vary depending on the type of parasite causing the infection.