Malaria is an infectious disease caused by microorganisms in the genus Plasmodium. These infectious agents occur in the bloodstream of the infected, and are spread by biting Anopheles mosquitoes. Infection causes fever, fatigue, headaches, nausea, and jaundice, and in more extreme cases may manifest with seizures and lead to coma or death. It is most widespread in warm regions, mostly in the tropics and subtropics, and hits hardest in countries who are already at a developmental disadvantage due to the legacy of colonialism. In Africa alone, malaria is estimated to cause economic damages equivalent to US $12,000,000,000 per year.
