What does malaria mean in travellers?

Travellers may have little or no previous protection against malaria parasites found at their destination. An infected mosquito can transmit the parasite, and symptoms may start while away or later. Fever, chills, headache or unusual tiredness should not be dismissed as jet lag when you have visited a malaria-risk area. Risk depends on the destination, route, season, accommodation and personal health rather than on travel alone.

Before departure, arrange medical advice with your itinerary and dates. Discuss whether preventive tablets are appropriate and how to take them. Reduce bites with repellent, covered skin, screened rooms and a bed net where needed. Follow the plan exactly, and keep a record of destinations and medicines. If illness develops, seek local care and state clearly that you have travelled to a malaria-risk area.

Seek prompt medical assessment for a fever during a trip or after returning from an area where malaria occurs. Emergency symptoms include confusion, fainting, breathing difficulty, repeated vomiting, severe weakness or rapid worsening. Tell the clinician when you travelled, where you stayed and whether you used prevention. Testing and treatment should be guided by a professional, even if symptoms improve temporarily.

Ask whether your destination has malaria risk, which prevention options fit your health, what bite precautions to use, and what to do if fever starts abroad.