No child should die because of a mosquito bite. Together, we can end malaria in our lifetime.
Malaria is near and dear to our family, because Cory has had malaria several times. She lived in Madagascar, Africa for 8 years and contracted malaria for the first time during her first year there.
Many people who live in Africa and other countries as well are susceptible to a mosquito bite.
How can this dreaded disease be stopped? Well, one way is by providing bed nets treated with insecticides. One $6 bed net is large enough to protect 2 children or more for about 4 years.
Why is this cause important? Because more than 2,000 children die each day from malaria. (some sources say 3,000)
Malaria is a potentially fatal infection of the blood that is caused by a protozoan parasite called Plasmodium. An infection occurs when a person is bitten by a mosquito that carries the parasite.
Malaria is preventable and treatable. However, each year, 350-500 million people are infected with malaria. African children under the age of five account for 75% of those who die--that's 3,000 children each day and 20% of ALL childhood deaths in sub-Saharan Africa. (source: UNICEF)
Malaria endangers pregnant mothers and babies. It is responsible for as many as 10,000 maternal deaths a year. Women who contract malaria during pregnancy can run the risk of maternal anemia, spontaneous abortions and stillborn children. Their children may suffer from impaired fetal growth, premature birth or low birth weight.
Malaria symptoms include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, and joint aches. If left untreated, malaria can develop into cerebral malaria that can cause a coma and even death.
Let's put an end to malaria. Bite Back! Donate $6 per bed net to World Vision or $10 per net to Compassion International!
HELP SAVE A LIFE!
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