Contents
How Can Travelers Protect Themselves from Malaria?
Published: Sep 11, 2023
Malaria is a serious illness that affects many travelers returning from certain parts of the world. This article explores ways to prevent malaria so your journey remains a healthy one.
Understanding Malaria Risk
Travelers returning from sub-Saharan Africa face the highest risk of malaria, especially from Plasmodium falciparum, the most severe form. Pregnant travelers and those visiting friends and relatives in endemic regions are particularly vulnerable. Understanding your risk can help you take the necessary precautions to protect yourself.
Mosquito Bite Prevention
Avoiding mosquito bites is vital for malaria prevention. Travelers should use insect repellents like DEET and wear protective clothing. Staying in screened or air-conditioned rooms and using insecticide-treated bed nets can also reduce the risk of mosquito bites.
Chemoprophylaxis: A Pill a Day Keeps Malaria Away
Taking antimalarial medication before, during, and after travel can prevent malaria. Options include atovaquone-proguanil, mefloquine, and doxycycline. It's crucial to adhere to the medication schedule for maximum protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Plasmodium falciparum is the most severe form of malaria.
Avoid outdoor exposure between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes feed.
DEET, picaridin, and oil of lemon eucalyptus are recommended repellents.
No, no chemoprophylaxis regimen guarantees complete protection.
Key Takeaways
Prevention is better than cure, so plan ahead to protect yourself from malaria.
References
- Brown AB, Miller C, Hamer DH, et al. Travel-Related Diagnoses Among U.S. Nonmigrant Travelers or Migrants Presenting to U.S. GeoSentinel Sites - GeoSentinel Network, 2012-2021. MMWR Surveill Summ 2023; 72:1.
- CDC Yellow Book: Health Information for International Travel. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2023. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/yellowbook-home
- Mace KE, Lucchi NW, Tan KR. Malaria Surveillance - United States, 2018. MMWR Surveill Summ 2022; 71:1.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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