Malaria Prevention Important When Traveling

Malaria is a potentially fatal condition transmitted by mosquitoes. Although malaria is rarely found in the United States, Americans are susceptible to the condition when traveling to areas where malaria is still prevalent. Signs of this condition include recurring attacks of shaking chills, high fever, and profuse sweating, accompanied by headache and gastrointestinal symptoms. Persons traveling to such malaria-endemic locations should be cautious about prevention of malaria before departing the United States.

Medications are available for both the prevention and treatment of malaria. Mefloquine (Lariam), doxycycline (Doryx, Vibramycin), and a combination of atovaquone and proguanil (Malarone) may be prescribed for persons planning to travel to malaria-endemic locations. For malaria prevention, medications may be prescribed to be taken for up to several weeks prior to departure, during the trip, and for up to four weeks after returning from the area. Although these types of medications should be avoided in pregnancy, chloroquine (Aralen) or mefloquine (Lariam) may be prescribed during the second and third trimester if needed. Mosquito repellent, protective clothing and netting are also recommended when in an area where malaria is of concern.