Symptoms of malaria may include flu-like symptoms or gastro-intestinal disease symptoms, e.g.:
fever
generalized body aches
chills
tiredness
headaches
sore throat
coughing in children
diarrhoea
nausea
It is worth emphasizing that these symptoms may not be dramatic, and can easily be mistaken for an attack of influenza or gastro-enteritis. Deterioration can be sudden and dramatic. A high swing in fever may develop, with marked shivering and dramatic perspiration. Complications of a serious nature, such as involvement of the kidneys or brain (cerebral malaria) may then follow. Cerebral malaria is extremely serious, with the victim becoming delirious and entering a coma. Cerebral malaria is frequently fatal, and it is extremely important that all suspected cases of malaria should receive immediate medical attention.
All persons possibly exposed to malaria developing influenza-like illnesses or fever within seven days after entering a malaria area should seek immediate medical attention!
Urgent blood tests must be taken to check for possible malaria infection. It may be sensible to have a second blood test taken if a first test is negative for malaria, to be certain of excluding the disease.
Malaria Summary
Malaria is a potentially fatal disease transmitted by mosquitoes.
Prevention relies on measure to reduce bites, and taking anti-malaria medication appropriately both for the destination and the traveller.
All travellers developing influenza symptoms or fever after visiting a malaria area should be tested for malaria, even if they took preventive measures.
