Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by Plasmodium parasites, which are transmitted to humans through the bite of infected Anopheles mosquitoes. Once inside the human body, the parasite multiplies in the liver and then infects red blood cells, leading to symptoms such as high fever, chills, sweating, headaches, muscle pain, and fatigue. In severe cases, it can cause complications like anemia, organ failure, seizures, and even death, particularly in children and pregnant women.

There are several species of Plasmodium that cause malaria, with Plasmodium falciparum being the most dangerous and responsible for the majority of deaths. Malaria is prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, especially in parts of Africa, Asia, and South America.