SayPro Prevention: Advice for travellers

Travelers to places where malaria is prevalent should take precautions, for example, using mosquito nets.

While malaria is not endemic to the U.S., travel to many countries around the world entails a risk.

Travelers are advised to:

• find out what the risk of malaria is in the country and city or region they are visiting
• ask their doctor what medications they should use to prevent infection in that region
• obtain antimalarial drugs before leaving home, to avoid the risk of buying counterfeit drugs when away
• consider the risk for individual travellers, including children, older people, pregnant women, and the existing medical conditions of any travellers
• ensure they will have access to preventative tools, many of which are available to purchase online. These include insect repellents, insecticides, pre-treated bed nets, and appropriate clothing
• be aware of the symptoms of malaria

In emergency situations, local health authorities in some countries may carry out “fogging,” or spraying areas with pesticides similar to those used in household sprays.

The WHO points out that these are not harmful for people, as the concentration of pesticide is only strong enough to kills mosquitoes.

While away, travelers should, where possible, avoid situations that increase the risk of being bitten by mosquitoes. Precautions include taking an air-conditioned room, not camping by stagnant water, and wearing clothes that cover the body at times when mosquitoes are most likely to be around.

For a year after returning home, the traveler may be susceptible to symptoms of malaria. Donating blood may also not be possible for some time.