Prevention
We actually do not have a vaccine to prevent the onset of malaria by exposing the immune system to the parasite. However, we do have prevention strategies before and after being infected. They are included in a 4-step approach that includes being aware of the risk, preventing mosquito bites, using antimalarial drugs, and getting diagnosed promptly if you were at risk of infections and now have symptoms of malaria.
First, you should be aware of your risks if you’re about to travel abroad. Talk to your doctor if you’re traveling to tropical countries in South America, Central America, sub-Saharian Africa, India, among others. If malaria is common in these areas, it is good to take extra precautions before traveling.
Secondly, prevention strategies should always include reducing your exposure to insect bites. Mosquitoes are the vector of malaria, and you will be less likely to get this disease if you take a few measures: If you are indoors, keep the windows and doors shut or use screening and air conditioning. Use mosquito nets to sleep and insect repellents on the skin if you’re going out. Wear long-sleeve shirts and trousers to reduce the exposed skin area.
Thirdly, it is essential to consider with your doctor the possibility of using antimalarial drugs before and after your travel. This does not guarantee that you won’t catch the infection but reduces the chance significantly. You can get these tablets from your doctor or your pharmacist. Some of them can be available as over-the-counter drugs, but not all work the same way or are effective for the same Plasmodium species. Thus, it is a good idea to talk to your doctor before deciding on one. Follow the instructions about how to use it and continue using them up to 4 weeks after returning from the trip.
Finally, it is also important to look for medical advice if you have symptoms of malaria, especially if you recently traveled to endemic areas. Get immediate medical help if you’re experiencing the symptoms mentioned above. This disease worsens very rapidly if not treated promptly. But if you have early treatment, the most concerning symptoms will go away in a matter of a few days or weeks.
