Malaria

Malaria is a tropical disease transmitted to humans by mosquitoes. It is found in several parts of the world such as Africa, Central and South America, the Middle East, and parts of Asia. Symptoms are similar to those caused by the flu and include fever, chills, sweating, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. Anemia, jaundice, kidney failure, and coma are less common. Different strains of malaria exist and the type of strain will determine the severity of the infection. One stain of malaria (i.e., falciparum) may even lead to death if untreated. Some strains of malaria may remain dormant in the liver and appear months after returning home.

Before departure, travellers must know the preventative measures to be taken to guard against malaria. Protecting against mosquito bites is the first line of defense for travelers. As much as possible, clothing that covers most of the body should be worn. Insect repellents which contain DEET (N,N-diethylmeta-toluamide) should be applied to areas of exposed skin. At night, mosquito netting or bed nets treated with permethrin should be used. These products may be purchased in hardware or camping stores. Be aware that the risk of mosquito bites is higher from dusk to dawn.

Antimalarial agents, which include mefloquine, chloroquine, and doxycycline, are not 100% effective against malaria but can greatly reduce the risk of becoming sick. They are to be used with, not instead of, the physical measures described above. Prior to leaving, all travelers should consult a travel clinic to obtain a prescription for an antimalarial medication. The travel destination will determine which one is prescribed as different types of malaria exist across the world and also, malaria in some areas is resistant to certain medications. In general, medications are started before arriving in the malaria endemic zone, are taken during the trip, and are them continued for 4 weeks afrer returning home. Antimalarial drugs must be taken exactly as prescribed since missing doses is the major reason why travelers become infected with malaria.

If a flu-like illness develops during the trip or up to 1 year (especially within 2 months) after retuning home, it is important to seek medical attention immediately and to inform the physician of recent travel. A diagnosis of malaria requires a series of blood tests and once confirmed, malaria can be successfully treated with medication.