Malaria

Greenwich has the third highest number of cases of Malaria in South London.

If you and your family have lived in the UK for some time, even if you’ve had Malaria before, you’ll have no natural immunity against it. It’s important to know how to protect yourself before travelling to an affected area.

What is Malaria?

It is a serious tropical disease that is spread by mosquito bites. If it is not diagnosed and treated quickly, it could be deadly.

How to prevent Malaria

You can avoid the disease by remembering the ABCD approach to prevention:

Awareness of risk – find out whether you’re at risk before travelling.
Bite prevention – avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellent, covering your arms and legs and using a mosquito net.
Check whether you need to take Malaria prevention tablets.
Diagnosis – seek immediate medical advice if you develop symptoms, including up to a year after you return from travelling.

Also, speak to your GP if you are planning to visit an area where there is a risk.

To find out more about Malaria please visit NHS Choices.