MALARIA SYMPTOMS

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.