What You Can Do about Increased Risk of Malaria

Why the areas impacted by malaria have increased so much remains in dispute. Some say global warming. Others say the ban on DDT. The truth may be a combination of factors.

In any case, travelers have more to worry about than a few years ago.

In an era when people make travel decisions online, most online maps do not display up-to-date malaria locations. This is dangerous.

In South Africa, travelers used to be concerned about malaria solely in areas near Mozambique, such as Kruger National Park and the St. Lucia Marine Reserve. Now, the infected area has spread nearly to Johannesburg and threatens to impact Durban, a key 2010 World Cup venue.

Nairobi used to sit safely above the malaria zone. Now the risk completely surrounds Nairobi.

What can you do?

First, use the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta for up-to-date information. The maps on its site pinpoint where you need protection. You’ll also find valuable and trustworthy information about malaria and other diseases you may encounter.

Second, if you’re going to or near an area with malaria, you'll need to see a doctor about it and probably other potential illnesses.

Depend on a doctor who has up-to-date information about preventing malaria and other diseases that impact travelers. Just because malaria has been reported in an area does not mean that you’ll necessarily be advised to take precautions, if the risk is not great.

I am not a medical professional. Do not depend on me or other laypersons you may find in forums or other areas of the Internet. You need professional advice when traveling to the so-called third world.

You may not have a tropical medicine clinic in your area, but you probably have a church like the Latter Day Saints or business that regularly sends people to impacted areas. Ask these for doctor referrals, if needed.

The medicines used to prevent malaria depend on the region and on the person. Some travelers may need to start taking medicine prior to their trips; others may not.

Doxycycline, an inexpensive anti-malaria medicine, may significantly increase your chance of sunburn. If you are to take Doxycycline, ask your doctor if you can take it later during the day to lessen the chance of burn.