Malaria

There are some very serious diseases found in other parts of the world that people in the UK won’t be protected against. GOV UK Malaria. confirms that in 2021, a total of 1,012 cases of imported malaria were reported. Therefore, it’s important that customers do their research. 

Malaria is a disease which is spread by night biting mosquitoes that inject a parasite into the body. Malaria is found in tropical areas of the world such as Africa, Asia, central South America, and parts of the Middle East. It is a disease which infects the red blood cells. The parasite is spread to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito. The mosquito generally bites during the night injecting parasites into the bloodstream. 

Every year, approximately 1,500 travellers in the UK are treated for malaria. There are a high number of cases where returning travellers from West Africa are not taking any/the correct malaria tablets. It’s really important that you use every opportunity to encourage the use of malaria prevention tablets where customers are travelling to a high-risk country – always refer to the pharmacist in this case. You can also signpost the patient to the Fit For Travel website to investigate the area they are travelling to.

It is safe to say that malaria is not found in the UK, but it can be found in those returning to the UK from the at risk areas. Symptoms of malaria usually appear 7 – 18 days of being bitten but they can lay dormant for up to a year depending on the type of parasite. If malaria isn’t treated quickly, it can be fatal.

If the individual is travelling to countries other than those in Europe or western countries, they should seek advice on whether they need anti-malarial tablets which will help prevent infection. The Pharmacy will often be the first port of call for travellers needing advice on treatments, so ensure you are able to obtain all necessary information on their travel plans as this will help the pharmacist and speed up the process for the individual.

Depending on the country, they may need to start taking anti-malarials 1-2 weeks before travelling and continue for potentially up to 4 weeks after they return.

Within Numarknet there is a section titled A-Z of travel destinations which covers different countries, the suggested anti-malarial chemoprophylaxis regime and even suggested travel vaccinations for that area.

Outside of supplying anti-malarials by far the single best thing you can do in the community pharmacy is give advice and guidance to customers on how to avoid being bitten in the first place. GOV UK Mosquito bite avoidance has some great advice and guidance for example:

• Insect repellent with at least 50% DEET.
• Clothing with long sleeves, trousers, skirts and dresses, socks and shoes to stop mosquitoes biting the skin.
• If your accommodation is not air-conditioned or if you are sleeping outdoors, use insecticide-treated mosquito nets and ensure the ends are tucked under the mattress.