What should you know about the life cycle of the malaria parasite?

The liver stage may occur before symptoms, while the blood stage is linked with fever, chills and muscle aches. Different malaria species can behave differently, and parasites may remain in the liver in some infections. A blood test helps detect the blood-stage infection, but recent travel, timing and previous medicines must be shared with the clinician.

Before travel to an affected area, arrange a Travel Health Consultation to discuss mosquito protection and Malaria Prophylaxis. Use repellent, cover exposed skin, sleep behind screened or treated netting and reduce indoor mosquito exposure. After travel, tell a clinician promptly about the destinations and dates if fever or chills develop; do not self-treat with leftover medicine.

Fever during or after travel in a malaria area needs prompt medical assessment, even if symptoms come and go. Seek emergency care for confusion, fainting, seizures, severe weakness, breathing difficulty, repeated vomiting or inability to drink. Malaria can worsen quickly, so explain your travel history when contacting a service.

Ask which malaria test is being used, whether it needs repeating, and which parasite species or travel exposures are relevant. Confirm the treatment schedule, warning symptoms and whether follow-up testing is needed. For future travel, ask when prevention should begin and how long it should continue.