How does malaria affect children?
More than 40% of the world’s children live in places where malaria is a constant threat. Most children die from malaria because they do not get effective treatment. The most severe form of malaria—cerebral malaria—will cause convulsions, coma and death in 93% of children affected. The 7% who survive are left with permanent neurological problems such as epilepsy, blindness, weakness, speech problems and significant cognitive issues. The most common cause of death from malaria among young children is the severe anemia that results from repeated infections. Additionally, infants born to women who had malaria during their pregnancies tend to be of low birth weight or premature, both of which decrease their chances of survival during their first years.
