Anti-Malarial Medication
What is Malaria?
Malaria is a dangerous disease that can sometimes be deadly, and it is common in many tropical and subtropical regions of the world.
You can get malaria if you are bitten by a mosquito that has the malaria germs in its saliva. These germs are called Plasmodium, which are part of a group known as protozoans.
There are four different types of Plasmodium: P. falciparum (the most harmful), P. vivax, P. ovale, and P. malariae.
Where can I get it?
Malaria occurs in over 100 countries and more than 40% of the people in the world are at risk. Large areas of Central and South America are considered malaria-risk areas. If you’re travelling to somewhere that has warm, humid and tropical conditions you are at risk of contracting of malaria and may benefit from anti-malarials.
Popular travel locations include that carry a risk of malaria
- Large areas of Africa and Asia
- Central and South America
- Haiti and the Dominican Republic
- Parts of the Middle East
- Some Pacific Islands
Treatment Options
Chloroquine and Proguanil can be started one week before travel, throughout your stay in an endemic area and continue for four weeks after return.
Mefloquine (Lariam) must start two and a half weeks before travel, throughout your stay in an endemic area and continue for four weeks after return.
Travelling abroad and not sure if you're at risk?
If you’re unsure about the vaccine, have any questions or want to find out what vaccines you need. We’re here to help, book your appointment online or call us on 0208 393 1000.