World Malaria Day: what you should know

Malaria is an infection passed to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. Risk varies between destinations and can differ within the same country, so travel advice should be specific to the itinerary, season, type of accommodation, and planned activities. The aim of awareness is to prevent bites, consider preventive medicine when it is appropriate, and make sure illness after travel is assessed without delay.

Fever, chills, sweats, headache, tiredness, and muscle aches can occur with malaria. Malaria commonly presents with a feverish illness, but these symptoms can also be caused by many other infections. Tell a clinician about recent travel even if symptoms begin after you return.

Book a travel-health consultation well before departure. A clinician can discuss mosquito avoidance and whether malaria prophylaxis suits your destination and health history. Take preventive medicine exactly as prescribed if it is recommended, including any doses needed after travel. Use measures that reduce mosquito bites, such as suitable repellent, clothing that covers exposed skin, and screened or air-conditioned sleeping areas where available.

If you feel unwell during or after travel to an area where malaria occurs, arrange a medical assessment and state where you travelled. A blood test may be used to look for malaria and guide treatment.

Seek urgent medical care for fever after travel to a malaria-risk area, particularly with chills, sweating, worsening weakness, vomiting, confusion, fainting, seizures, or difficulty breathing. Do not rely on self-treatment or wait for symptoms to settle if malaria is a possibility. Babies, children, pregnant people, and anyone who is seriously unwell need prompt clinical assessment.

Ask which bite-prevention measures fit your itinerary, whether preventive medicine is appropriate, how to take it, and what symptoms should prompt assessment after travel. Mention pregnancy, long-term conditions, allergies, and all regular medicines.