Malaria Myths vs Facts: What Every Tanzanian Family Should Know
Stop believing malaria myths that put your family at risk. Learn the real facts about malaria transmission, symptoms, and treatment in Tanzania. Get 24/7 doctor consultations from your phone.
Malaria is Tanzania's biggest health problem. 93% of Tanzanians live in malaria risk areas. But many people believe wrong information about malaria that can put their families in danger.
Let's separate myths from facts so you can protect your family better.
6 Common Malaria Myths - And The Truth
MYTH #1: Drinking Unboiled Water Causes Malaria
Some people believe that drinking unboiled water or eating contaminated food causes malaria.
THE TRUTH:
Malaria comes ONLY from mosquito bites.
When an infected mosquito bites you, it passes the malaria parasite into your blood. You CANNOT get malaria from water or food.
MYTH #2: Traditional Herbs Can Cure Malaria
Many people use local herbs and traditional medicine to treat malaria symptoms.
THE TRUTH:
Only proper malaria medicine kills the parasite.
Traditional herbs might reduce fever temporarily, but they DO NOT kill malaria parasites. Without proper treatment, malaria can become severe and deadly.
⚠️ DANGER: Delaying proper treatment can cause brain damage or death, especially in children.
MYTH #3: Every Fever Is Malaria
Many people think "fever = malaria" and take malaria medicine without testing.
THE TRUTH:
NOT every fever is malaria!
Typhoid, urinary tract infections, dengue, and other diseases also cause fever. Always get tested first before taking malaria medicine.
💡 TIP: Taking malaria medicine when you don't have malaria makes parasites resistant to drugs.
MYTH #4: Mosquito Nets Are Not Safe
Some people worry that treated nets release harmful chemicals that can hurt children.
THE TRUTH:
Mosquito nets are SAFE for everyone.
The chemicals in treated nets are tested and approved by health experts. They are safe for babies, pregnant mothers, and everyone. Nets save thousands of lives every year.
MYTH #5: If Symptoms Go Away, You're Cured
People often stop taking medicine once they feel better.
THE TRUTH:
You MUST complete the full treatment.
Even if fever goes away after 1-2 days, parasites are still in your blood. Take ALL the medicine for the full 3 days. Stopping early can make malaria come back stronger.
MYTH #6: You Can Only Get Malaria in Rural Areas
City people sometimes think they are safe from malaria.
THE TRUTH:
Malaria exists in BOTH cities and villages.
Dar es Salaam, Mwanza, Arusha - all cities have malaria cases. Mosquitoes breed anywhere there's standing water - even in urban areas.
Real Malaria Symptoms - When to See a Doctor
Warning Signs of Malaria:
High Fever
Body temperature above 38°C
Chills & Shaking
Feeling very cold with shaking
Sweating
Heavy sweating after chills
Headache
Strong pain in the head
Nausea & Vomiting
Feeling sick, throwing up
Body Weakness
No energy, feeling very tired
⚠️ If you have these symptoms, GET TESTED immediately!
How to Protect Your Family from Malaria
Sleep Under Treated Nets
Use mosquito nets every night, especially for children and pregnant women.
Remove Standing Water
Empty containers, tires, and pots where mosquitoes breed.
Get Tested When Sick
Don't assume fever is malaria. Get a blood test first.
Complete Full Treatment
Take all medicine for 3 full days even if you feel better.
Talk to a Doctor 24/7 - Right from Your Phone
Have symptoms? Not sure if it's malaria? Don't guess. Talk to a qualified doctor anytime using your mobile phone with Milvik's telemedicine service.
- Ask about your symptoms
- Know when you need testing
- Get advice on treatment
- Follow-up questions after treatment
If you need hospital care for severe malaria, Milvik's hospitalization insurance covers your costs.
🚨 Feeling Sick? Don't Wait!
Call a doctor NOW if you have fever, chills, or body pain.
Available 24 hours. Easy. Affordable. From your mobile phone.
MILVIK Health Team
Making quality healthcare accessible to all Tanzanian families