MALARIA: SPREAD BY INSECT BITES

Malaria is transmitted by mosquitoes that usually bite from dusk to dawn.

Signs and Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of malaria typically begin 8–25 days following infection; however, symptoms may occur later in those who have taken antimalarial medications as prevention. Early malaria symptoms are flu like, such as head/body aches and generally feeling tired and unwell. Untreated, it can cause complications including anemia, seizures, mental confusion, kidney failure and coma. It can be fatal.

Prevention

Methods used to prevent malaria include medications, mosquito elimination and the prevention of bites.

If visiting malarial areas, use a medication to prevent chloroquine-resistant P. falciparum malaria. These include:

• Atovaquone plus proguanil (Malarone® and generics)
• Doxycycline (many brands and generics)
• Mefloquine (Lariam® and generics)

Continue malarial prophylaxis while exposed to malaria. Stopping the medication while still exposed leaves you susceptible again to the dangerous consequences of malaria.