Malaria is a parasite-caused disease that is transmitted via mosquito bites. It is a serious and often life-threatening disease that, in addition to flu-like symptoms such as high-fever, chills and body aches, causes severe infection. Because of its high mortality rate, preventing the spread of malaria is a critical goal for health organizations across the world. You can do your part by taking steps to prevent malaria infection from happening to you.
Health organizations work to combat malaria in two distinct ways: through the use antimalarial drugs and through protection against mosquito bites.
Up until recently, a malaria vaccine has not existed. While researchers at the University of Oxford have recently developed a vaccine that they claim to be 80% effective, many health providers continue to recommend, and many patients still prefer, the more tried and true antimalarial drugs. There are currently six antimalarial drugs on the market today, each of which provides its own benefits and uses:
It is important to note that no antimalarial drug is 100% effective in preventing the virus. That said, you can take a combination of drugs for optimal protection. Consult with your doctor months before your trip to develop the most effective regime against malaria ahead of time. It is important that you are proactive in your prevention planning, as some of the drugs require advanced testing.
Now that you are familiar with the different antimalarial drugs available to you, the next preventative measure you should take is to assess your level of risk. By knowing your risk level — and, more importantly, for what strains you are most at risk — you can work with your doctor to develop an effective antimalarial drug regime.
Use an insecticide that contains pyrethroids, which is an organic compound similar to mosquito repellents found in the wild. You should spray this insecticide both on your person and throughout all living and sleeping spaces for the most effectiveness, being sure to douse your clothes as well. Though you should spray multiple times throughout the day, it is especially important in the evening and night-time hours.
It is important to note that, if you plan to use sunscreen in addition to mosquito repellent, you apply the sunscreen first and the mosquito repellent second. This ensures the repellent’s utmost effectiveness.
Most of the heavy duty, highly effective mosquito repellents on the market today last for 24 hours, meaning you only need to apply it once. However, always check the label to ensure you are using each product effectively. If a product says to apply twice daily, do so. If a product is not water-resistant and you go swimming, reapply after swimming. Regardless of what a label says, if bugs start biting you before the reapplication period comes around, reapply.
If you plan to travel to areas with high risk of malaria, pack clothing that covers your arms, legs and other areas of skin that may possibly be exposed. If the risk is moderate, if mosquitos come out only at night, wear long sleeves and pants at night at the very least. The less skin you leave exposed, the less risk you have of getting bit by a malaria-carrying mosquito.
In places where malaria is a real risk, hanging out around the bonfire at night is not a thing. Rather, both travellers and residents should stay indoors, in well-screened areas. If you plan to camp, set up camp away from bodies of water or other places where mosquitos like to lay their eggs. Also, check and double check your test for any holes, and keep your door closed from dusk until dawn.
Not only should you have a net over your bed but also, any openings to your sleeping quarters should be shrouded in mosquito nets as well. This includes windows, doors, skylights and other possible openings. Douse the netting in mosquito repellent each night for an extra layer of protection. If accessible, turn the air-conditioning on, as mosquitos generally steer clear of cool, air-conditioned rooms.
Antimalarial medications are only effective if you take them as directed. Whether you opt for a daily medication or a weekly dose, set your alarm to remind yourself to take your medication as prescribed. Missing even a single dose can put you at risk of contracting malaria from a carrier mosquito.
Though most infected persons develop symptoms within one to two weeks of contracting the virus, malaria can remain dormant for anywhere between four months to one year. For this reason, it is imperative that you remain vigilant for signs of malaria for up to one year after your return home. Malaria’s initial symptoms are flu-like and may include fever, headache, chills, fatigue and possible nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.
Malaria is a serious and possibly fatal disease. For this reason, you should take every precaution to protect yourself and your loved ones against it. If you take these 10 tips to heart, you can drastically reduce your risk of contracting it, if not eliminate it entirely.