MALARIA

A serious and sometimes fatal disease prevalent throughout the tropics. It is caused by infection with a protozoan parasite spread by the bite of an anopheles mosquito. Preventive drugs (prophylaxis) should be taken by anyone travelling where malaria is endemic. The choice of regimen depends on the resistance of malaria parasites in area to be visited.

Advice to patients Take antimalarials as instructed: read the instructions. Seek medical advice if flu-type symptoms occur within 12 months of exposure. No regimen is 100% effective. Try to avoid mosquito bites: cover up if out at night (long sleeves, long trousers), use insect repellent and if sleeping in an unscreened room or outdoors use an insecticide-impregnated bed net. (NaTHNaC recommends impregnated nets if sleeping in rooms that are not enclosed and air conditioned)>