Malaria is a life-threatening infectious disease caused by Plasmodium parasites, transmitted through the bite of an infected female Anopheles mosquito. Malaria mainly spreads through mosquito bites, but less common routes of transmission include blood transfusion, shared needles and from mother to child during pregnancy or childbirth.

Although malaria is preventable and treatable, it remains one of the most common travel-related diseases among people leaving the UK. Even a single mosquito bite in a high-risk region can lead to severe illness. In its most severe form - particularly with Plasmodium falciparum - malaria can cause organ failure, coma, and can be fatal without prompt treatment.

This is why malaria prevention is essential for anyone travelling to an endemic area. Antimalarial tablets, mosquito-bite protection, and proper travel health advice significantly reduce your risk of infection. Taking the correct medication before, during, and after your trip is the most effective way to stay safe.

Malaria symptoms usually present within 10-15 days after a mosquito bite and they include but are not limited to:

• High fever
• Chills and shaking
• Headache 
• Fatigue and weakness
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Muscle and joint pains
• Sweating

Diagnosis is usually done through microscopy, rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) or through advanced Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing and treatment depends on the specific parasite involved and the severity of the malaria. 

Prevention and control measures include insecticide-treated mosquito nets, antimalarial tablets, vaccines, environmental management of mosquito breeding sites, and using mosquito repellents.

Malarone