What is it?
Malaria is caused by a parasite in a group of parasites called Plasmodium. There are 5 different kinds of parasites in this group that can cause the disease.
What is my risk?
Malaria occurs in Africa, Central and South America, parts of the Caribbean, Asia, Eastern Europe, and the South Pacific (See maps: Eastern Hemisphere and Western Hemisphere). People spending time outdoors, including sleeping outside, are at higher risk for malaria.
How is it transmitted?
Malaria is spread to people by the bite of a female mosquito infected with malaria parasites. This type of mosquito bites from sunset to sunrise.
In rare cases, transmission can also occur through mother to fetus, blood transfusion or the sharing of needles.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms usually appear within in 7-30 days but can take up to one year to develop. Symptoms include high fevers, shaking chills, and flu-like illness. Without treatment, malaria can cause severe illness and even death.
Can it be treated?
Malaria can be treated with anti-malarial medications. Treatment depends on different factors, such as the type of malaria parasite and the severity of the disease. If the disease is identified early and treated, almost all cases can be completely cured.
How can I prevent it?
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Take anti-malarial drugs (can be prescribed before your trip. They must be taken before, during and after your travels to help prevent malaria).
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Protect yourself from mosquito bites by using DEET-containing products and coveringexposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shits, long pants and hats