What is malaria?

Malaria is a tropical disease which is transmitted by mosquitos. To become infected all it takes is one bite.

Malaria can cause a serious risk to your health, and can even prove fatal, if it isn't diagnosed and treated properly. If you are travelling to high risk areas it is important that you protect yourself against this disease.

If contracted, malaria can present with the following symptoms:

• Fever
• Chills and sweats
• Headaches
• Muscle pains
• Diarrhoea and vomiting

Symptoms can appear as soon as seven days after being infected but may take much longer to present.

If the symptoms present and you are in a malaria risk area or have just returned from an ‘at risk’ area medical advice must be sought immediately.

What causes malaria?

Malaria is caused by a parasite known as Plasmodium. Many different types exist but only certain strains cause the disease in humans.

The parasite is passed from mosquito to humans when a bite occurs, this often is more prevalent at dusk and through the night. When the bite occurs, the parasite passes into the bloodstream causing infection.

In what countries am I at risk of catching malaria?

It is not possible to contract malaria in the UK, however 100 countries around the world contain areas in which malaria-carrying mosquitos are present. Affected areas include:

• Large areas of Africa and Asia
• Central and South America
• Haiti and The Dominican Republic
• Parts of the Middle east
• Pacific Islands

How can I protect myself against malaria?

At Prestwich Travel Clinic, we have everything you need to protect yourself and stay safe when travelling around the globe. We can advise you on which countries you are at risk of contracting malaria in.

Speak to our well experienced and traveled pharmacists about some of the simple steps you can take to prevent the bites happening. We can provide simple day-to-day travel advice as well as recommending products such as insect repellents.

We use the latest guidance to advise on which malaria prevention tablets are best for your travel schedule. We have a range of malaria prevention tablets available and can supply these following a consultation with one of our pharmacists without a prescription and without delay!