At East Craigs Pharmacy, we provide comprehensive advice on malaria prevention, including the use of malaria tablets when you travel. Malaria is a serious disease transmitted by the bites of infected mosquitoes, primarily in tropical and subtropical regions. While taking malaria tablets is essential for protection, understanding the activities that increase your risk of contracting the disease is equally important.
Many popular holiday destinations, such as parts of Africa, Southeast Asia, South America, and Central America, have a higher risk of malaria. Travellers heading to tropical areas for safaris, beach holidays, or jungle treks should take preventive measures. This includes taking malaria tablets before, during, and after their trip, using mosquito repellent, and sleeping under treated nets. Protecting yourself is crucial to ensure you can enjoy your travels without the risk of contracting this serious disease.
High-Risk Activities for Contracting Malaria
- Spending Time Outdoors at Dusk and Dawn
Malaria-carrying mosquitoes are most active during dawn and dusk. Travellers who spend extended time outdoors during these periods are at a higher risk of being bitten. High-risk activities include camping and trekking. Even short periods of exposure without protection can increase the chance of infection. - Visiting Rural or Forested Areas
Malaria is more prevalent in rural, forested, or agricultural areas where mosquitoes thrive. Travelling to remote villages, farms, or nature reserves can significantly increase your risk, as mosquito control measures may be less effective in these regions compared to urban areas. - Poor Use of Protective Measures
While outdoor activities increase the risk, failing to use protective measures such as insect repellent, long-sleeved clothing, and mosquito nets can compound this risk. These barriers are essential in keeping mosquitoes away and reducing the likelihood of bites. - Staying in Accommodations Without Proper Mosquito Control
Staying in lodgings without air conditioning, screens on windows, or mosquito nets is a major risk factor for contracting malaria. Many mosquitoes enter rooms through unscreened windows, or by sneaking in when doors are opened, particularly in tropical areas.
The Importance of Malaria Tablets
Taking malaria tablets is one of the most effective ways to prevent malaria. These medications work by killing the malaria parasites in your bloodstream if you’re bitten by an infected mosquito. Depending on the region you’re travelling to, you may be prescribed different types of malaria tablets. These can include atovaquone/proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine.
Our team can help you choose the most suitable malaria tablets based on your travel plans and medical history. We strive to help you make the right choice and can also advise on any potential side effects and provide instructions.
It’s important to start taking the medication before your trip and continue taking it after you return, as per the instructions, to ensure full protection.
Common Myths About Malaria
Myth 1: Malaria Only Affects Certain Countries
Fact: Malaria is a global issue, affecting many countries in Africa, Asia, South America, and even parts of the Middle East. The risk isn’t limited to a few “high-risk” countries—anyone travelling to a malaria-endemic area should take precautions.
Myth 2: You Can’t Get Malaria If You Stay in Fancy Hotels
Fact: While staying in well-maintained hotels with mosquito control measures reduces the risk, it doesn’t eliminate it entirely. Mosquitoes can still enter indoor spaces, particularly in areas where malaria is common. Always use protection and consider taking malaria tablets regardless of your accommodation.
Myth 3: Once You’ve Had Malaria, You Can’t Get It Again
Fact: It’s possible to contract malaria multiple times. Having had malaria once does not provide immunity. Therefore, it’s essential to take preventive measures, such as malaria tablets, every time you travel to an area where the disease is prevalent.
Myth 4: Malaria is Easily Treatable Everywhere
Fact: While malaria can be treated, access to healthcare and effective treatments can vary greatly depending on the country you’re in. This is why prevention, such as taking malaria tablets, is crucial.
Protection and Prevention
Malaria is a serious disease, but with the right precautions, it can be prevented. Understanding the high-risk activities that increase your exposure to mosquitoes, and ensuring you take malaria tablets as prescribed, are key steps in protecting yourself. At East Craigs Pharmacy, we’re here to provide expert advice and the necessary medications to keep you safe on your travels. If you’re planning a trip to a malaria-prone area, contact us today to discuss your needs and ensure you’re fully prepared.
This blog was written on behalf of East Craigs Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.