[Malaria, a worldwide scourge]

Malaria, mostly caused by Plasmodium falciparum, continues to take its toll throughout the world's tropical zone. The last report of the World Health Organization indicates renewed activity of this endemic disease, with 300 to 500 million cases per year per 2.3 billion persons at risk, and 1.5 to 2.7 million death. Africa is the most affected, with an estimated incidence of 700 cases per 1000, while in South America and Asia, the incidence varies around 4 to 5 cases per 1000. Using treated mosquito nets will probably not lower transmission sufficiently to decrease mortality. Early treatment, particularly in the child, is as important and combating transmission.