Malaria fact sheet: key information

The parasite enters the bloodstream after a bite from an infected mosquito and can affect red blood cells. Symptoms may begin after travel or may be delayed, so tell a clinician about recent visits to places where malaria occurs. Fever can come with chills, sweating, headache, tiredness or muscle aches. A symptom alone does not establish the diagnosis; a blood test is used to look for the infection.

If malaria is possible, arrange urgent medical assessment and mention where and when you travelled, mosquito exposure, and any prevention medicine you took. Take prescribed treatment exactly as directed and do not share it. For future travel, a travel health consultation can match prevention advice to the destination, itinerary and your health history. Use repellent, cover exposed skin and sleep behind screens or under a treated net where advised.

Seek same-day medical care for fever during or after travel to a malaria area, especially when it is accompanied by chills, confusion, marked weakness, breathing difficulty, repeated vomiting or yellowing of the skin. Emergency help is needed for a seizure, collapse, severe drowsiness or trouble breathing. Do not wait for symptoms to follow a predictable pattern.

Ask which blood test is needed, when results should be repeated, how to take each medicine, and which symptoms should prompt emergency help. If travel is planned, ask whether malaria prophylaxis is suitable and when to begin it.