Which mosquito spreads malaria?

The parasite moves between people through the mosquito rather than through casual contact. A mosquito becomes infected after feeding on a person who has parasites in the blood. In a later feeding, parasites can enter another person and begin their life cycle in the liver and red blood cells.

Illness may bring fever, chills, headache, fatigue, or muscle aches. These symptoms are not specific enough to diagnose malaria without considering travel and arranging appropriate testing. A person may not remember being bitten, especially when the bite was unnoticed.

Wear clothing that covers the arms and legs, use insect repellent as directed, and choose screened or air-conditioned accommodation when possible. A bed net can help during sleep in settings where mosquitoes are present. Remove or avoid areas of standing water near living spaces when practical.

Before visiting a malaria-risk destination, speak with a travel clinician about malaria prophylaxis. The choice depends on destination, route, length of stay, activities, and medical history. Continue bite precautions even when preventive medicine has been recommended.

Arrange prompt medical care for fever after a stay in a malaria-risk region. Seek emergency help for confusion, a seizure, fainting, severe breathing trouble, profound weakness, or repeated vomiting. Provide the dates and places of travel so testing and treatment decisions are not delayed.

How can I protect myself at night? Which repellent and clothing choices are suitable for me? Should I take malaria prophylaxis? If fever appears after returning, where should I obtain a blood test?