Which mosquito spreads malaria?

Anopheles mosquitoes become infected when they feed on a person carrying malaria parasites. During a later bite, parasites can pass into another person's bloodstream. The mosquito's appearance is not a reliable way for a traveller to identify risk, and a bite may go unnoticed. Transmission depends on whether infected mosquitoes are present in the area, so check the destination rather than assuming that familiar mosquito activity is harmless.

Use repellent on exposed skin according to its label, wear loose clothing that covers arms and legs, and sleep in a screened or air-conditioned room when possible. A treated bed net can add protection. Ask for malaria prophylaxis before travel to a risk area; the medicine and schedule depend on destination and personal health. A travel health consultation allows prevention advice to be tailored to the itinerary.

Contact a clinician urgently for fever, chills, headache, unusual tiredness or muscle aches after visiting a malaria-risk area. Emergency symptoms include confusion, seizures, severe breathing difficulty, collapse and persistent vomiting. The absence of a visible bite does not rule out exposure, and a blood test may be needed to check for malaria.

Ask whether your destination has malaria transmission, which bite precautions suit your trip and when preventive medicine should start and stop. If you feel unwell after returning, share your itinerary, accommodation and dates with the clinician.