What should you know about G6PD and malaria?

Malaria itself can cause fever, chills, sweats, headache, and muscle aches, while G6PD deficiency can make red blood cells vulnerable to oxidative stress. Some medicines used for malaria prevention or treatment may add to that stress. This does not mean a person with G6PD deficiency cannot travel or receive malaria care; it means the plan should account for the person's enzyme status, destination, and the malaria species or treatment being considered.

Tell the clinician about known or possible G6PD deficiency before starting malaria prophylaxis or treatment. A travel health consultation can review mosquito precautions, destination risks, and suitable options. Do not borrow antimalarial medicine or change a prescribed dose. If fever develops during travel or after returning from a malaria area, seek same-day medical assessment and explain where you have been.

Fever after travel to a malaria area needs urgent assessment, even if symptoms seem mild. Seek emergency help for confusion, collapse, severe weakness, breathing difficulty, yellow skin or eyes, or dark urine. These signs can reflect serious malaria, red-cell breakdown, or both. A blood test may be needed to investigate the cause.

Ask whether G6PD testing is needed before a planned medicine, which prevention options suit your health and destination, and what warning symptoms require immediate help. Confirm what to do if fever, chills, or muscle aches appear after travel.