Who can get malaria?

People living in or visiting malaria-risk regions may be exposed, including travellers who feel healthy and those visiting family. Previous malaria does not reliably protect someone from a future infection. Young children, pregnant people, older adults and people with reduced immunity can become seriously ill and should plan prevention carefully. Risk also depends on destination, season, accommodation and access to mosquito protection; it is not determined by nationality or skin colour.

Arrange a travel health consultation before departure, ideally early enough to discuss medicines and vaccinations relevant to the itinerary. Use repellent, protective clothing, window screens and bed nets where appropriate. After returning, tell a clinician about every malaria-risk destination if fever, chills, headache or muscle aches occur. A blood test can support diagnosis; do not rely on symptoms alone or borrow preventive tablets from another traveller.

Seek same-day medical advice for fever or an unexplained flu-like illness after travel to a malaria-risk area. Emergency help is needed for confusion, seizures, breathing difficulty, collapse, severe drowsiness or inability to keep fluids down. Pregnant people and children should contact a clinician promptly rather than waiting for symptoms to settle.

Ask how your age, pregnancy status, medicines or long-term conditions affect prevention choices. Confirm what symptoms should prompt a blood test and what travel information the clinic needs.