Malaria Prophylaxis

About

Malaria prophylaxis is a critical measure for travelers visiting areas with a high risk of malaria, particularly in parts of Africa and Asia. It involves a combination of mosquito avoidance techniques and chemoprophylaxis. Mosquito avoidance includes staying in air-conditioned or screened rooms, using insecticide-treated nets, and applying insect repellents like DEET to exposed skin. Travelers should also wear protective clothing to minimize exposed skin, especially during peak mosquito hours between dusk and dawn. Chemoprophylaxis involves taking antimalarial drugs before, during, and after travel to areas with malaria transmission. Common drugs include atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, and mefloquine. The choice of drug depends on factors like drug resistance in the area, personal health conditions, and potential side effects. While chemoprophylaxis is effective, it is not 100% protective, so travelers must combine it with mosquito avoidance measures. Even with these precautions, any fever should be evaluated for malaria upon return from a risk area.