Effects of malaria

Symptoms may come in episodes, but a brief improvement does not prove the infection has cleared. Severe malaria can lead to confusion, seizures, extreme drowsiness, yellowing of the skin, dark urine, breathing difficulty or collapse. Children, pregnant people and people with reduced immunity can become seriously unwell quickly.

A recent stay in or travel to a malaria-risk area matters, even if symptoms begin after returning home. A blood test can help identify malaria parasites and guide treatment.

Seek prompt medical assessment for fever or chills after travel to a malaria-risk area. Tell the clinician where you travelled, when you returned, any prevention medicine you took and all medicines you use. Rest, drink fluids if you can, and do not delay assessment while waiting for symptoms to follow a pattern.

For future travel, a travel health consultation can match prevention advice to your destination and plans. Malaria prophylaxis may be part of that plan, alongside measures to avoid mosquito bites.

Go to an emergency service immediately for confusion, a seizure, trouble breathing, fainting, severe weakness, repeated vomiting, inability to drink, or rapidly worsening fever. These signs can indicate severe illness and need urgent treatment.

Ask which tests are needed, whether repeat testing is appropriate if the first result is negative, which warning signs require emergency help, and how to prevent malaria during future travel.