Malaria

SafeGard Travel Medicine physicians routinely recommend malaria medications for travelers who will be at risk. They generally provide options unless there is a specific contraindication. The travel pharmacies we work with provide these medications.

What is malaria?

Malaria is a parasitic illness spread through the bite of the mosquito. Symptoms usually appear in 7-30 days. They can take up to one year to develop, especially in persons starting but not completing their medications. Your healthcare provider should be alerted to possible exposure if you develop symptoms within the year. Initial symptoms are flu-like but the classic symptom is alternating periods of high fevers with sweating and shivering chills. Without treatment, malaria can cause severe illness and even death.

How can I prevent malaria?

Travelers should follow good mosquito precautions at all times. Additionally, travelers can protect themselves by taking the medications recommended by our physician. It is very important to follow the instructions for these medications and ensure that you complete the full course.

Who should get medications?

Malaria occurs in Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, Central and South America, parts of the Caribbean, and the South Pacific. If you will be going to an area with risk of malaria, our physician will recommend malaria medications. The more time spent outdoors, the higher the risk for malaria. According to the CDC, there are about 1700 cases of malaria and 5 deaths each year among international travelers from the United States.