Review Article: ‘Miasma' Theory and the Possibility of Malaria Eradication

Abstract

Malaria as a disease entity caused by plasmodium species only became recognized towards the end of the 19th Century. Prior to that time, Mal'aria or ‘bad air' was believed to be the cause of fevers or paludal. This article traces the history of ‘Miasma' theory which had been accepted for Centuries before the ‘Germ' theory became established. Comparing the ‘Miasma' theory with current understanding of Africans about disease causation, it was concluded that there are great similarities. It is therefore recommended that concurrent application of both the ‘Germ' theory and the ‘Miasma' theory could lead to a more effective control or even global eradication of malaria.

Key words: Miamsa, malaria, eradication

Afr. J. Clin. Exper. Microbiol. 2005; 6(2): 153-158