Malaria is transmitted by the bite of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. Incubation period range from1 to 4 weeks. Symptoms include fever, chills and rigors. 3 main types of effective prophylaxis are available from UHC:

Drug Dosing Schedule Positive Negative Mefloquine (Lariam) 1 tab per week, beginning 2 weeks before departure and continue for 4 weeks after leaving endemic area Weekly dosing, reasonable price Neuropsychiatric side effects Doxycycline 1 tab daily, beginning 1 day before departure and continue for 4 weeks after leaving endemic area Cheap price Daily dosing. Side effects of vaginal thrush, photosensitivity, esophagitis Atovaquone/ proguanil (Malarone) 1 tab daily beginning 1 day before departure and continue for 7 days after leaving endemic area Few side effects, short duration of intake Expensive, daily dosing

Note The above schedules are only for prevention of malaria. The schedule for treatment of malaria is different. All cases of suspected malaria should be treated in hospital. General Advice for Prevention of Malaria • Stay indoors between dusk and dawn as this is when the female anopheles mosquito is active • Wear long sleeved and light coloured clothing • Use mosquito repellent containing 10% to 30% DEET • Consider treating clothes with permethrin-based products • Sleep under impregnated mosquito netting or in well screened air-conditioned rooms For locations at risk of malaria, please refer to Medical Prevention for Travellers.

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