What action should be taken if someone shows symptoms of Malaria?

When someone shows symptoms of malaria, it's crucial to take immediate and appropriate action due to the potential seriousness of the disease. Assuming it’s malaria and referring the individual to a Medical Officer is the correct action because timely diagnosis and treatment are vital for ensuring the best outcomes. Malaria can progress rapidly and become life-threatening, so it is essential to act on the symptoms rather than delaying.

Referring to a medical professional ensures that the individual receives the appropriate diagnostic tests and necessary treatments that are not available through self-treatment options. Healthcare providers can also evaluate the symptoms in the context of travel history and risk factors, which are critical in confirming a malaria diagnosis.

Other options, such as waiting to see if symptoms improve or administering over-the-counter pain relief, do not adequately address the urgency of malaria symptoms. Additionally, while home tests exist, their reliability can vary, and it’s best handled by health professionals who can provide confirmed results and proper management.