Dr D A Ware · Dr G V Price · Dr J A Crane · Dr G A Preest· Dr O Thomas
Malaria is a very serious disease that can kill. It is transmitted by mosquito bites. You should discuss your exact requirements with the practice nurse or your Doctor well in advance of your holiday. The advice given on this page is intended to give you a "rough idea". Please consult the Practice Nurse, Pharmacist or your Doctor for your exact requirements.
There are many ways of reducing your susceptibility to infection.
 | High risk times are after dusk, but you can get bitten at ANY time of the day |
| Wear long sleeved clothes - cover exposed areas of skin |
| Use repellents (skin repellents, sprays and vaporisers etc) |
| Use a mosquito net |
| Beware near water and swampland |
If you are travelling to an area at risk of malaria, your Doctor will recommend the use of "Anti-malarial" medication. This should be taken in addition to the above advice. Unfortunately, no medicines can guarantee 100% protection. In some areas, there may be a problem with resistance to some anti-malarial medication. You may need to start taking your medicine up to 3 weeks before you travel, and up to 4 weeks after you return. (Of course, you must also take your medicine whilst you are abroad!). Your Doctor will advise you on the most appropriate medication for your individual circumstance. Although these medicines can have side effects, contracting Malaria itself can be life threatening and is extremely dangerous! The cost of anti-malarial medicine is not covered by the NHS and you will have to pay for your medicines when you go to the chemist.
Malaria can present itself as an illness that is similar to flu, but needs immediate medical attention. Should you fall ill on your return from travel abroad (up to one year, but especially during the first 3 months), it is important to tell your Doctor that you have been to an area "at risk" of Malaria.
The information contained on this site is general information which is not in any way intended to replace the specific advice that patients may obtain from their own doctor about individual care.