Malaria is currently one of the most serious infectious diseases in the world. It s caused by a parasite, Plasmodium, which is transmitted to humans by the bite of an Anospheles mosquito. The parasite invades the red blood cells and liver cells, causing periodic destruction of those cells. The disease may ultimately be fatal.

If travelling to areas where malaria is widespread, you must take precautions to prevent mosquito bites (through the use of house screens, mosquito netting, insect repellants and insecticides).

If you are travelling in areas where malaria exists, you should receive what is called chemoprophylaxis. This is a form of protection provided by the use of certain specific medications based on the drug chloroquine: Nivaquinee, for which the dose is two tables a week, or Maloprim of which you take one tablet a week. Following your doctor’s instructions, you should start two weeks before departure and continue taking it for at least four weeks after your return. In some countries you may require additional medications.