Malaria Prevention
Malaria is a very serious, widespread disease transmitted by mosquitoes, which can be fatal. It is therefore important to protect against mosquito bites in countries where malaria is present. In the UK alone, over 2000 people each year return from a malarial zone to find they have been infected with the malaria parasite.
Over the counter proguanil tablets for malaria prevention in countries where there is a risk of infection. Suitable for travellers to malarious zones and non-immune residents. Available without prescription. Seek medical advice about which malaria prevention medicine is appropriate for you.
Infection with malaria parasites will cause anaemia, flu-like symptoms, fever, chills, vomiting, and in extremely serious cases, death.
Malaria Prevention
To avoid being infected with malaria, everything possible should be done to avoid mosquito bites. Malaria prevention measures include:
- Sleeping under a mosquito net, preferably one that has been treated with insecticide
- Using an effective insect repellent, such as one containing Deet
- Wearing light coloured clothing that covers arms and legs, and wearing socks if possible, especially at dusk and when outside at night
- Wearing insect repellent clothing, such as Craghoppers Nosilife insect repellent shirts and trousers
- Screening bedroom windows and doors, making sure there are no holes or unscreened entrances for mosquitoes to enter
- Using air conditioning - mosquitoes generally dislike strong breezes and cool temperatures
- Making use of insecticide sprays to kill any mosquitoes that may have got inside rooms during the day
- Using a plug in mosquito repellent at night
Malaria Prevention Medicine
If you are travelling to a part of the world where malaria is prevalent, it is wise to take malaria prevention medicine (prophylaxis) such as chloroquine or proguanil, which can be bought over the counter from a pharmacist.
Unfortunately, malaria parasites have built up resistance to some malaria prevention medicines in certain areas. For example, the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum has become increasingly resistant to chloroquine in many parts of Africa, such as Kenya, Gambia and Nigeria. Other anti-malarial medications may be more suitable.
Find out how great the risk of malaria is when you are travelling, and ask about the appropriate malaria prevention measures you should take. A pharmacist, travel clinic or doctor can give you good advice about preventing malaria.
