Malaria in the emergency department

Malaria can a be serious, life-threatening illness. Data suggest that there are thousands of cases in the United States each year and that infection rates are increasing. Initial patient presentation will often be at the ED triage desk; patients usually have flulike symptoms and a fever. A high index of suspicion for individuals at risk of malaria clarified by a brief but thorough travel history facilitates early identification of presumptive cases and prompt, effective care. Early antibiotic treatment and aggressive supportive care are the mainstays of treatment. Serious P. falciparum infection should always be presumed and treated until proven otherwise.