Malaria
What is malaria?
Malaria is a serious disease caused by Plasmodium parasites. It is preventable and curable, but without prompt diagnosis and treatment it can become severe very quickly.
Where is there a risk?
It occurs mainly in tropical and subtropical regions. Risk is not the same in every country or every area within a country, and it can change over time.
How does it spread?
Most cases are caused by the bite of an infected female Anopheles mosquito, which introduces the parasite into the body. Malaria does not spread by hugging, touching or being near someone who is ill.
Symptoms
- Fever.
- Chills and sweating.
- Headache.
- Tiredness and feeling generally unwell.
- Nausea, vomiting or muscle pain.
Confusion, seizures, breathing difficulties or extreme tiredness can be signs of severe malaria and need urgent care.
Prevention when travelling
Before visiting an area with malaria, speak to a travel-health professional. Depending on the destination, they may recommend:
- Preventive antimalarial medicine, taken exactly for the prescribed period.
- Suitable insect repellent, long sleeves and long trousers.
- Insecticide-treated bed nets and accommodation with screens or air conditioning.
- Immediate medical advice if fever develops during the trip or after returning.
Treatment
Malaria always requires specific medicines. Treatment depends on the parasite, where the infection was acquired, and the person's age and health. Preventive antimalarial drugs reduce risk but do not replace protection from mosquito bites.
