Malaria Prevention

Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease caused by a parasite that commonly infects a certain type of mosquito which feeds on humans. People who get malaria are typically very sick with high fevers, shaking chills, and flu-like illness.

  • About 2,000 cases of malaria are diagnosed in the United States each year.
    • The vast majority of cases in the United States are in travelers and immigrants returning from countries where malaria transmission occurs, many from sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia.

  • The most used preventive drug used for preventing Malaria is called Antimalarial pills. They are unlike a vaccination and must be taken on a regular basis.
    • No antimalarial drug is 100% protective and must be combined with the use of personal protective measures, (i.e., insect repellent, long sleeves, long pants, sleeping in a mosquito-free setting or using an insecticide-treated bed-net).

  • Antimalarials are available by prescription-only, visit our trusted pharmacy for a full consultation on what you need to stay protected against Malaria

Taking preventative medicine for malaria is important for preventing infection when traveling to areas where the disease is prevalent. Further, infected mosquitoes transmit malaria, and there is no vaccine to prevent it. Healthcare providers recommend oral medications to help reduce the risk of infection. Similarly, taking these medications as directed is an essential step in ensuring a safe and healthy trip. For more information make sure you schedule a consultation!

Resource: Center for Disease Control and Prevention