Malaria is a life-threatening disease spread through the bites of parasite-infected Anopheles mosquitoes. The disease is both preventable and treatable, yet it remains a major public health concern in malaria-endemic regions, affecting locals and travellers to these areas. 

This article provides simple, preventative measures to keep people living in or travelling to malaria areas safe and prevent the transmission of malaria.

Tip 1: Avoid being bitten by mosquitoes

Probably the best way to avoid getting malaria is to avoid mosquito bites when living in or travelling in a malaria area. When in malaria-endemic areas:

·        Sleep under insecticide-treated mosquito nets;

·        Use screens on windows and doors of homes or accommodation;

·        Wear long sleeves, pants, and socks, particularly during peak mosquito activity times (dawn and dusk), if possible;

·        Remain indoors during peak mosquito activity times, if possible;

·        Use strong mosquito repellent on exposed skin.

Tip 2: Eliminate standing water

Mosquitoes can breed even in small amounts of standing water, increasing malaria risk in endemic areas. Regularly empty or cover containers that collect water to prevent mosquitoes from breeding around your home or accommodation.

Tip 3: Take preventive antimalarial medication

Before traveling to a malaria-endemic area, discuss with a healthcare provider the best preventative antimalarial drugs for your destination, as some malaria strains may be resistant to certain drugs. No, these drugs do not hide symptoms!

Tip 4: Be aware of an area’s malaria-risk

To find out if an area is at risk for malaria, you can check reliable health sources like the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), WHO (World Health Organization), or consult a travel clinic. They provide up-to-date information on malaria risk by country or region, plus other valuable information that can keep you safe.

Tip 5: Know the symptoms of malaria

Malaria symptoms often begin with mild fever and flu-like signs, with intervals of feeling well in between. Early on, there may be headache, fatigue, nausea, minor vomiting, muscle pain, slight diarrhoea, and a mild fever, which are often mistaken for flu or a stomach infection. Symptoms usually start 10 to 14 days post infection.

Tip 6: Be vigilant and seek prompt medical care

Monitor your health for any symptoms of malaria, especially fever, chills, or muscle pain. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any during and even after your trip, as symptoms can develop weeks later. Prompt diagnosis and rapid treatment is very important.

The risks are the same for everyone. Remember the above and maybe one day save a life, perhaps even your own. It only takes one bite from an infected mosquito for you to get malaria!