Malaria
Malaria is a parasitic infection spread mainly by mosquitoes. It occurs in parts of Africa, Asia, the Americas and the Pacific. Risk varies substantially within countries and with season, accommodation and activities. Some forms can worsen rapidly and become fatal. Symptoms may begin during travel or months after returning.
Prevention: Mixed
Symptoms
- Fever, chills and sweats
- Headache, muscle aches and tiredness
- Severe illness may cause confusion, seizures or breathing difficulty
Transmission
- Bites from infected Anopheles mosquitoes
- Less commonly, infected blood, shared needles or transmission during pregnancy
Prevention
Use mosquito repellent, covering clothing and insecticide-treated nets or screened sleeping areas. A travel-health professional can assess whether preventive medicine is needed for your itinerary. Take any prescribed prevention exactly as directed; the choice and timing depend on the destination and individual health. Prevention does not eliminate every risk.
Diagnosis and care
Fever during or after travel in a malaria-risk area needs immediate medical assessment, even if preventive medicine was taken. Tell the clinician about the trip. Rapid testing and prompt treatment are essential; do not wait to return home.
Source
- Malaria
Based on CDC information
Source language: English
Source reviewed: April 23, 2025
Source accessed: May 17, 2026
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