Malaria prevention and control

Malaria is an infection transmitted by infected mosquitoes. Risk depends on the destination, season, activities and your health, so advice should be tailored before travel. Bite prevention reduces exposure, while malaria prophylaxis can reduce the chance of illness but does not replace protective clothing or repellent.

Fever, chills and muscle aches after visiting a malaria-risk area need prompt medical attention, even if they begin after returning home. Tell the clinician where you travelled and when.

Arrange a travel health consultation early enough to discuss the itinerary and suitable malaria prophylaxis. Use insect repellent as directed, wear long sleeves and trousers, and sleep under an intact insecticide-treated net where advised. Keep doors and windows screened or closed when possible, and reduce time outdoors when mosquitoes are active.

Take preventive medicine exactly as prescribed and ask what to do if a dose is missed or side effects develop. Seek advice rather than stopping it on your own.

Get urgent medical advice for fever, chills, unusual weakness, confusion, breathing difficulty or repeated vomiting during travel or after returning from a risk area. A blood test may be needed quickly; do not rely on a home temperature reading or wait for symptoms to become severe. Mention any preventive medicine you took.

Ask which destinations carry malaria risk, which preventive medicine fits your itinerary and health history, and how long to continue it. Check which symptoms require urgent testing after you return.