Malaria is a disease caused by a mosquito-borne parasite, which is transmitted via the bites of infected mosquitoes. Malaria is really a serious condition that is common in most tropical countries. It is important that you take measures to reduce your risk of infection after you travel to these areas.
Understanding the risk of malaria
The risk varies between countries and the type of trip. For example, back-packing or travelling to rural areas is generally more risky than keeping urban hotels. In some countries the risk varies between seasons – malaria is more usual in the wet season. The main type of parasite, and the quantity of resistance to medication, varies in different countries. Although risk varies, all travelers to malaria-risk countries should take precautions to stop malaria.
The mosquitoes which transmit malaria normally fly from dusk to dawn and as a consequence evenings and nights are by far the most dangerous time for transmission.
Symptoms of malaria include
- Fever
- Flu-like illness
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Tiredness
- Nausea
- vomiting and diarrhea
- Jaundice
- Retinal damage
- convulsions
- Respiratory difficulties
Prevention of Malaria
Vector control
Vector control remains the most generally effective measure to prevent malaria.
Malaria was successfully eradicated or controlled also in several tropical areas by removing or poisoning the breeding grounds of the mosquitoes, for example by filling or applying oil to places with standing water.
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Antimalarial medication (chemoprophylaxis)
Antimalarial medication helps to stop malaria. The best medication for taking depends on the country an individual visit. This is because the type of parasite varies between different elements of the world. Also, in some areas the parasite is now resistant to certain medicines.
Indoor residual spraying
Indoor residual house spraying is the most widely and commonly used chemical method,Indoor residual spraying (IRS) is the practice of spraying insecticides on the interior walls of homes in malaria affected areas.
Mosquito nets and bedclothes
Mosquito nets help keep mosquitoes away from people, and thus greatly reduce the infection and transmission of malaria
