Remember, this article is to help you understand the process you should take. It does not replace the recommendations of medical professionals - along with our advice, get and understand theirs too!

Does Malaria Occur in your Destination Country?

You need to determine whether malaria occurs in any of the countries that you will be travelling to. Generally, malaria occurs in tropical and sub-tropical areas at mid- to low- elevations (below about 2,500 m or 8,200 ft). It is common in areas of Africa, Central & South America, and South & Southeast Asia. If malaria does not occur in your destination country, then luckily you can skip to the end of this article.

What is Malaria?

Malaria is a serious disease, and so has earned a stigma in the western world. However, instead of succumbing to pop-culture attitudes, you need to become informed. Learn about malaria, how this disease is spread, the lifecycle of this disease, and it's effects on your body. For example, there are 4 different parasites that cause malaria, but not many people realize that only one of them can be fatal. This information is very important if you want to appropriately prevent, identify or treat this infection in yourself and others.

Preventing Malaria in your Destination Country

Find out about preventative measures that can be taken to avoid infection in your destination country. This may include personal protective measures, as well as site-specific anti-malaria medications. The occurance of the 4 different types of parasites that cause malaria can vary considerably from place to place. In addition, some of the parasites can be resistance to certain medications. For these reasons, it's important to get information that is specific to your destination country.

What are the Symptoms of Malaria?

Be familiar with the symptoms of malaria. Malaria infection usually manifests as acute flu-like symptoms within 7 - 14 days of infection. Because malaria symptoms are common to a number of other illnesses, it's important to be able to identify the symptoms when you see them. Early detection of malaria infection is the key to ensuring a full and rapid recovery.

How Do You Treat Malaria?

Going immediately to a medical facility is probably your best option. But if you're far from help, then it's useful to know how to treat malaria. Treatment usually consists of oral medications that depend on the type of parasite and it's resistance.