• Malaria causes more than 2 million deaths worldwide each year. Each year the UK has some 2000 imported cases. The majority of these cases are caused by travellers failing to take their recommended medication properly or in some cases not at all.
• The disease is spread by the bite of the female mosquito.
• The traveller’s most important defence against malaria is prevention.

• What medication? If you are visiting an area that has malaria then you should have discussed with an appropriate health professional what medication is needed in order to help prevent malaria. The correct regime of treatment will depend upon the up to date information on drug resistance in the area you are visiting. The correct anti malarial treatment for your destination and adhering to the regime will greatly reduce your risk of malaria. The treatment usually commences one week prior to travel ( mefloquine needs two and a half weeks prior to travel, and malarone two days ) continues for the duration of the visit and is continued for four weeks after arrival home ( except malarone which should be taken for 7 days after arrival home ).

• Avoid being bitten. The taking of medication should not be solely relied upon. It is strongly advised that all efforts to avoid being bitten are taken in addition.
1. wear long trousers, socks and long sleeves when outdoors after sunset.
2. use repellents on exposed skin and garments.
3. use electric mat vaporisers to pervade your bedroom overnight.
4. use a fly spray to kill mosquitoes entering your room during the day.
5. if your bedroom is not secured consider the use of a screened room or the use of a mosquito net over your bed and tucked under the mattress.

Useful Websites

• Malaris reference laboratory - http://www.malaria-reference.co.uk/
• Stalbridge Surgery has prepared a list of useful websites for patients.

About This Page