Key points
- Malaria is a medical emergency and can become life-threatening if not quickly diagnosed and appropriately treated.
- Only a healthcare provider can diagnose and treat a patient for malaria.
- Prescription drugs, available in the U.S., can cure malaria.
- See a healthcare provider if you are sick and have recently been in an area where malaria is widespread.
![Mother holding sick child, talking to healthcare worker.](https://cdn.statically.io/img/www.cdc.gov/malaria/media/images/malaria-treatment-control.jpg)
Treatment overview
Starting treatment immediately is the best way to treat malaria and prevent serious and life-threatening issues. The type of drugs prescribed, and length of treatment depend on
- The type of malaria
- The geographic location where the infection likely happened (and likelihood of drug resistance)
- Your age
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- How sick you are at the start of treatment
Patients in the U.S. are typically hospitalized for malaria treatment.
Treatment options
Healthcare providers can refer to the CDC's Clinical Guidance: Malaria Diagnosis & Treatment in the U.S. for specific information.