Understand the Risk Before You Travel
Before you pack your bags, it’s essential to understand where you’re going and whether malaria is a concern in that region. Malaria is prevalent in parts of sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, Central and South America, and certain areas of Southeast Asia and Oceania. However, risk can vary not just between countries but within them—some regions, such as high-altitude cities or urban centres, may pose little to no risk, while nearby rural or forested areas might be high-risk zones.
Checking up-to-date travel health advice from trusted sources like the NHS Fit for Travel website or consulting a travel health specialist can provide clarity. This step is not about scaring yourself—it’s about being informed so that you can take appropriate action. Awareness is the first line of defence against malaria.
Consult a Travel Health Professional Early
Once you know you’re heading to a malaria-risk area, don’t delay in booking an appointment with a travel vaccination clinic. Ideally, aim to see a health professional 6–8 weeks before departure. This gives enough time to assess your personal risk, discuss your itinerary in detail, and start any required medication.
Malaria prevention isn’t one-size-fits-all. The right antimalarial medication depends on several factors, including the destination, length of stay, age, medical history, and even whether you’re pregnant. A qualified practitioner will recommend the most suitable option—whether that’s atovaquone/proguanil (commonly known by the brand name Malarone), doxycycline, or mefloquine.
It’s also a chance to review other important travel health needs, such as vaccines for yellow fever, typhoid, or hepatitis A, which are often relevant in malaria-endemic regions.
Start and Stick to Your Antimalarial Medication
Taking antimalarial tablets properly is vital to preventing infection. These medications work by suppressing the parasite responsible for malaria, but they only work if taken exactly as prescribed. That means starting the course before you enter a risk zone, continuing throughout your stay, and finishing the course after you leave—often for a week or more.
This post-travel continuation period is especially important. Many travellers feel fine when they return home and assume they no longer need the medication. But malaria parasites can linger in the liver, and stopping treatment too early leaves the door open for symptoms to appear days or even weeks later.
Some people experience mild side effects from antimalarials, such as nausea or vivid dreams. It’s wise to do a trial run before you leave to check for any adverse reactions—and always consult your clinician if anything feels off.
Protect Yourself from Mosquito Bites
Even with medication, preventing mosquito bites remains a cornerstone of malaria protection. After all, no antimalarial offers 100% protection, and some types of malaria have developed resistance to certain drugs. That’s why combining medication with bite-avoidance strategies offers the best defence.
Mosquitoes that carry malaria typically bite from dusk until dawn, so being vigilant during the evening and night-time hours is key. Use a high-quality insect repellent containing at least 20% DEET or alternatives such as picaridin or lemon eucalyptus oil. Apply it to all exposed skin, and reapply as directed, especially after sweating or swimming.
Wearing long-sleeved shirts and trousers in light colours can also help reduce bites. And sleeping under a mosquito net—ideally one treated with insecticide—is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to protect yourself overnight. If you’re staying in accommodation without good screens or air conditioning, this becomes even more important.
Know the Symptoms and Act Quickly
Despite your best efforts, it’s still possible—though rare—for malaria to occur. That’s why knowing the early signs and acting without delay is crucial. Symptoms usually appear within 7–18 days of being bitten by an infected mosquito but can sometimes take weeks or even months to develop.
The most common symptoms include high fever, chills, sweats, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. Sometimes, it might feel like a bad case of flu—but unlike flu, malaria can escalate rapidly and become life-threatening if untreated.
If you develop any of these symptoms while abroad or soon after returning home, seek medical attention immediately. Let the doctor know you’ve recently travelled to a malaria-risk area. This small detail can make a big difference, as prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential for a full recovery.
Final Thoughts
Malaria prevention doesn’t need to be complicated, but it does require a bit of preparation and commitment. By understanding your risk, consulting a travel health expert, taking antimalarials correctly, avoiding bites, and staying alert to symptoms, you’re setting yourself up for a safer, healthier journey.
If you’re planning travel to a region where malaria is a concern, now’s the perfect time to speak with a specialist. At the Edinburgh Vaccination Clinic, we can guide you through personalised prevention strategies tailored to your trip. Booking an appointment is a smart step towards peace of mind—and a successful adventure.
