What are the symptoms of malaria? Fewer than�1 million�cases per year (India) Treatable by a medical professional Spreads by animals or insects Requires a medical diagnosis Lab tests or imaging always required Short-term: resolves within days to weeks The severity of malaria varies based on the species of plasmodium. Symptoms are chills, fever and sweating, usually occurring a few weeks after being bitten. People travelling to areas where malaria is common typically take protective drugs before, during and after their trip. Treatment includes antimalarial drugs. How it spreads By animal or insect bites or stings. By blood products (unclean needles or unscreened blood).