Countries at risk
Malaria is most common in Africa, South East Asia, India, and certain regions of South and Central America.
Travel Precautions
The most common route to infection is being bitten by a female Anopheles mosquito. The disease can be prevented by using insect repellent when travelling to high risk areas. Ideally, insect repellents should contain the chemical ingredient DEET. Any insect repellent which contains DEET 50% or more is necessary to deter mosquitos in high risk areas, regardless of whether antimalarial tablets are used or not.
Signs & Symptoms
Symptoms usually develop within 10 to 15 days from the initial bite. In mild cases, they most often include nausea or vomiting, fatigue and may or may not include fever. In more severe cases symptoms include seizures, a yellow tone to the skin, coma or even death. If untreated, it can recur cyclically in several month intervals.
The Tablets
• Course: A single course of tablets starting before departure and continuing for 1-4 weeks after leaving the affected zone; details vary depending on the exact tablets used and area of travel.
• Side effects: Gastro-intestinal disturbances, sleep disturbances and skin discolouration are the most common side effects.
• Children: The tablets are suitable for children as young as 12 weeks.