Malaria Prevention
Malaria is a serious, potentially life-threatening illness that is endemic in many parts of the world, including South Africa. It is transmitted by the bite of the fernate Anopheles mosquito which is a night time biting mosquito. The most deadly form of malaria – Falciparum malaria – is found extensively in Southern Africa and the parasite is becoming increasingly resistant to many forms of medication previously used to treat it which is why it is becoming more difficult to contain.
The most important part of malaria prevention is bite avoidance!
DON'T GET BITTEN!
- Wear long-sleeved light coloured clothing from dusk to dawn.
- Use insect repellent containing DEET on exposed skin i.e. Tabbard or Peaceful Sleep.
- Sleep under mosquito nets that have been impregnated with insect repellent solution (Permethrin) and burn mosquito coils or pads at night.
These precautions apply even more especially to children and pregnant woman who are at gre
ater risk of developing severe malaria.
Consult the clinic for malaria prophylaxis (malaria Pills), specifically tailored for your requirements.
If on your return from a malaria area you develop a flu-like illness – with symptoms such as fever, body aches,diarrhoea or headache consult your Doctor or Travel Clinic as soon as possible! Malaria can develop and cause severe disease which can be fatal if not treated timeously.
