Anti Malaria Tablets and the Importance of Vaccination Against Mosquito-Borne Illnesses

Travelling to tropical and subtropical regions is an exciting experience, but it also comes with certain health risks. Mosquito-borne illnesses, such as malaria, dengue fever, and Japanese encephalitis (JE), pose a serious threat to travellers visiting areas where these diseases are prevalent. Taking anti malaria tablets and ensuring you are vaccinated against other mosquito-borne illnesses can help protect your health and ensure a safe trip. At Doncaster Chemist, we offer expert travel health advice, medications, and vaccinations to help you stay protected abroad.

The Importance of Protection Against Mosquito-Borne Diseases

Mosquitoes are responsible for spreading a range of serious diseases, many of which can lead to severe illness or even death if left untreated. Prevention is key, and travellers should take all necessary precautions, including taking anti malaria tablets, using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and receiving relevant vaccinations.

Malaria: A Serious Global Health Threat

Malaria is one of the most well-known mosquito-borne diseases, affecting millions of people worldwide. It is caused by the Plasmodium parasite, which is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. Symptoms of malaria can develop within seven to 30 days after being bitten and include:

• – High fever
• – Chills and sweating
• – Headaches
• – Muscle pain
• – Nausea and vomiting

If left untreated, malaria can become life-threatening. Travellers to high-risk areas such as sub-Saharan Africa, parts of Asia, South America, and the Indian subcontinent should take anti malaria tablets to reduce their risk of infection.

Anti Malaria Tablets: Essential for Travel to High-Risk Areas

Unlike other mosquito-borne diseases, malaria does not have an effective vaccine for widespread use, which makes taking anti malaria tablets the best method of prevention. Different types of anti malaria tablets are available, and the choice depends on factors such as your destination, medical history, and potential side effects. The main types include:

Atovaquone/Proguanil (Malarone) – Taken daily, starting two days before travel and continuing for seven days after leaving the affected area.

Doxycycline – Taken daily, beginning two days before travel and continued for four weeks after returning.

Mefloquine (Lariam) – Taken once a week, beginning at least two weeks before travel and continued for four weeks after returning.

It is crucial to follow the full course of anti malaria tablets to ensure maximum protection.

Other Mosquito-Borne Diseases and Vaccinations

While anti malaria tablets help prevent malaria, vaccination is key to protecting against other serious mosquito-borne diseases.

Japanese Encephalitis (JE)

Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection spread by mosquitoes in rural parts of Asia, including India, China, Thailand, and Vietnam. The virus affects the brain and can cause severe complications, including inflammation of the brain (encephalitis), seizures, and coma.

Symptoms of JE include:

• – High fever
• – Confusion
• – Seizures
• – Muscle weakness

The Japanese encephalitis vaccine is recommended for travellers visiting rural or high-risk areas for extended periods. It is given in two doses, spaced 28 days apart, and provides long-term protection.

Dengue Fever

Dengue fever is widespread in Southeast Asia, South America, the Caribbean, and Africa. There is no specific treatment for dengue, making prevention crucial. Symptoms include:

• – Severe flu-like illness
• – High fever
• – Joint and muscle pain (sometimes referred to as “breakbone fever”)
• – Skin rash

Although a dengue vaccine is available in some regions, prevention focuses on mosquito bite avoidance using repellent, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and using mosquito nets.

Yellow Fever

Yellow fever is a viral infection found in Africa and South America. It causes fever, liver damage, and jaundice. Many countries require proof of yellow fever vaccination before entry, particularly if you are travelling from an affected area. The vaccine is highly effective and provides lifetime protection after a single dose.

How to Stay Protected When Travelling

In addition to taking anti malaria tablets and getting the necessary vaccinations, there are other steps travellers should take to minimise the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses:

• Use insect repellent containing at least 50% DEET.
• Wear long-sleeved clothing and trousers in mosquito-prone areas.
• Sleep under a mosquito net if staying in areas with high malaria or dengue fever risk.
• Stay in air-conditioned or well-screened accommodations to reduce mosquito exposure.

When to Get Vaccinated and Start Anti Malaria Tablets

For the best protection, it is important to plan ahead. Anti malaria tablets should be started days to weeks before travel, depending on the type prescribed. Vaccinations such as Japanese encephalitis and yellow fever should be administered at least one month before travel to allow full immunity to develop. Some vaccines require multiple doses, so consult with a travel health specialist well in advance.

At Doncaster Chemist, we offer expert travel health consultations, helping you determine which anti malaria tablets and vaccinations you need based on your destination and itinerary.

Why Choose Doncaster Chemist for Your Travel Health Needs?

• Expert Travel Health Advice – We provide tailored recommendations for your trip.
• Comprehensive Protection – We offer anti malaria tablets, vaccinations, and travel health essentials all in one place.
• Trusted Local Service – As a community-focused pharmacy, your health and safety are our priority.
• Convenient and Flexible Appointments – Book a consultation at a time that suits you.

Book Your Travel Health Consultation Today!

Travelling to malaria-prone or mosquito-affected regions requires careful preparation. Anti malaria tablets and vaccinations are essential for ensuring a safe and healthy trip.

Reach out to us at Doncaster Chemist today to book your travel health consultation and ensure you have the right protection before you travel.

With the right precautions, you can enjoy your trip with peace of mind, knowing you are safeguarded against mosquito-borne illnesses.

This blog was written on behalf of Doncaster Chemist by Pharmacy Mentor.