Breakaway Destination Guides (International)

Malaria, It only takes 'One' bite

Every year on average, 1,800 people retyrn to the UK with Malaria. 70% of cases are caused by the potentially fatal Plasmodium falciparum.

Last-minute travellers are less likely to seek perr-travel advice. which is accessable in most areas, right upto the time of travel - It's never too late to seek advice.

Whem Planing a trip make an appointment with your GP at least six to eight weeks before travelling. The are a number of antimalarials available. Speak to your GP for up to date advice.

Malaria is preventable, but can be fatal if left untreated. If only takes one bite from an infected mosquito to contact Malaria.

You may not know immediatly that you have conttracted Malaria as the symptoms can take weeks or even months to appear, The symptoms can be non=specific and include:

Muscular aches,

Vomiting,

Diarrhoea,

and Adominal pains

Reduce the chance of getting bitten. Follow all adivce and puchace the reccommended antimalarial medication, mosquite nets and insect repellents. Application of incect replellent containing 20-25% DEET is advised and should be applied to any exposed skin and always ontop; of a sunblock, and should be sprayed onto cotten clothing for added protection

Keep arms, legs and feet covered and limit outdoor activities when mosquites are at theor most active, such asw between duck and dawn. Sleeping under a mosquite net impregnated with permethrin can help with protewction.

It is essential for you to compleat your course of antimalarials to get full protection.

The inital symptoms of malaria can often be mild, difficult to recognise and can be confused with flu. If you develope flue-like symptoms once you return home, seek medical advice imediaatly. Tell them that you have reciently reurned from a malaria-risk zone. This willl enable a speedy diagnosis and could potentially save your life.

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