Malaria
Malaria risk areas, bite avoidance, and the antimalarial medication we can supply for your destination.
What is malaria?
Malaria is a serious disease caused by parasites that are transmitted through the bite of infected Anopheles mosquitoes. It is a potentially life-threatening illness and is common in many tropical and subtropical regions of the world.
Where is malaria found?
Malaria is found in many countries, particularly in:
- Sub-Saharan Africa
- South and Southeast Asia
- Central and South America
- Parts of the Middle East
- Oceania
How is malaria spread?
Malaria is spread through the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito. These mosquitoes:
- Usually bite between dusk and dawn.
- Breed in areas of standing water.
- Are most active during the evening and overnight.
Symptoms
Symptoms usually develop 7 to 30 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito, although they can occur much later depending on the type of malaria and whether preventative medication has been taken. They may include:
- Fever
- Chills and shivering
- Sweating
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhoea
Prevention
The risk of malaria can be reduced by:
- Taking the recommended antimalarial medication.
- Using insect repellent containing DEET.
- Wearing long-sleeved clothing and long trousers, particularly from dusk until dawn.
- Sleeping under insecticide-treated mosquito nets where appropriate.
- Staying in accommodation with air conditioning or screened windows where possible.
- Reducing exposure to mosquito bites, especially during the evening and overnight.
Antimalarial medication
There is no routine travel vaccine for malaria. Protection is achieved through a combination of antimalarial medication and avoiding mosquito bites. Several antimalarial medicines are available, and the most suitable option depends on your destination, medical history, age, and travel plans. During your travel health consultation, our pharmacist will recommend the most appropriate medication for your trip and explain how and when to take it.
Who should consider antimalarial medication?
Antimalarial medication may be recommended for travellers who:
- Are visiting countries where malaria is present.
- Will be spending time in rural or remote areas.
- Are travelling for extended periods.
- Will be staying overnight in malaria-risk regions.
- Are visiting friends or relatives in countries where malaria is common.
A travel health consultation can help determine whether antimalarial medication is recommended for your destination.
When to seek medical attention
Seek urgent medical advice if you develop:
- A fever during or after travel to a malaria-risk area.
- Chills, sweats, or flu-like symptoms.
- Severe headache or unexplained fatigue.
- Symptoms that develop up to one year after returning from a malaria-risk country.
Health information notice: This page is for general guidance and does not replace a personal consultation. Our pharmacist confirms suitability, doses and timings at your appointment, based on your destination, medical history and travel plans.