Rising Cases of Travel-Acquired Malaria: Why Precautions Matter

Recent data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) have highlighted a concerning trend: imported malaria cases diagnosed in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland surpassed 2,000 in 2023, marking the highest number in over two decades. These cases were confirmed in individuals who had recently traveled abroad, underscoring the importance of taking precautions to minimize the risk of malaria when traveling.

In 2023, there were 2,004 confirmed cases of malaria in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland following travel abroad, compared to 1,369 in 2022. This increase is attributed to the resurgence of malaria in many countries and a rise in overseas travel following the easing of pandemic restrictions.

Malaria is a disease caused by a parasite transmitted through mosquito bites. Symptoms can be flu-like and include fever, headache, fatigue, abdominal discomfort, muscle aches, cough, and diarrhea. Severe cases, especially caused by the Plasmodium falciparum parasite, can progress rapidly and lead to life-threatening complications without prompt treatment.

To protect against malaria and reduce infection risks, travellers are advised to follow the ABCD of malaria prevention:

• Awareness of risk: Understand the risk of malaria in your destination.
• Bite prevention: Use insect repellent, cover exposed skin, and sleep under treated bed nets.
• Chemoprophylaxis: Take malaria prevention tablets as recommended.
• Diagnose promptly and treat without delay: Seek medical help if symptoms develop.

Travellers from the UK are encouraged to seek and follow travel advice specific to their destination, which may include taking antimalarials and implementing mosquito bite avoidance measures. While there is no licensed malaria vaccine for travellers, vaccines are available for other travel-associated infections.

The Travel Health Pro website, supported by the UK Health Security Agency, provides comprehensive information on health risks in countries worldwide and helps individuals plan safe trips abroad. It is essential to consult with a general practice, pharmacist, or travel clinic 4 to 6 weeks before travelling for personalized advice and malaria prevention measures.

In areas with disease-spreading insects like malaria, dengue, and Zika, travellers should use insect repellents, wear protective clothing, and sleep under treated bed nets to reduce the risk of mosquito bites.

If feeling unwell during travel, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Upon returning to the UK, individuals who feel unwell and have recently traveled should inform their healthcare provider about their travel history.

Professor Peter Chiodini from the UKHSA Malaria Reference Laboratory emphasizes that all malaria cases are preventable with simple measures such as using insect repellent, covering exposed skin, and taking malaria prevention tablets.

Dr Dipti Patel, Director of the National Travel Health Network and Centre, advises travellers to prioritize their health and plan ahead by checking country-specific information on TravelHealthPro and consulting with healthcare professionals before travel to ensure a safe and healthy trip.

By raising awareness and taking proactive steps to prevent malaria, travellers can protect themselves and minimize the risk of acquiring this potentially life-threatening disease during international travel.