Chelsea Green Pharmacy
Travelling to a malaria-prone destination can be an exciting adventure, but it also comes with health risks that require careful planning. At Chelsea Green Pharmacy, we help travellers stay safe with expert advice, essential vaccinations, and malaria tablets to reduce the risk of infection. Understanding the risks associated with malaria and other mosquito-borne illnesses can help you take the right precautions and enjoy your journey with peace of mind.
Malaria-Prone Destinations
Malaria is a serious mosquito-borne disease found in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. The disease is most commonly transmitted in:
Sub-Saharan Africa – Countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, and Tanzania have a high malaria risk.
South and Southeast Asia – India, Thailand, Cambodia, and Indonesia have malaria-endemic areas.
South America – The Amazon Basin, including parts of Brazil, Peru, and Colombia, carries a risk.
Parts of the Caribbean – Haiti and the Dominican Republic have recorded cases of malaria.
Oceania – Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands also report malaria cases.
If you are travelling to any of these regions, it’s important to take preventative measures before, during, and after your trip to reduce your risk of infection.
Activities That Put You at Higher Risk
Certain activities increase the likelihood of mosquito bites and exposure to malaria, including:
Rural Travel & Jungle Treks – Areas with dense vegetation and stagnant water are breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
Outdoor Activities – Activities such as hiking, cycling, and camping can put you more at risk.
Getting Out and About at Dusk & Dawn – Malaria-carrying mosquitoes are most active during these hours.
Staying in Unsanitary or Open-Air Accommodations – Resorts with proper air conditioning and mosquito nets provide better protection.
Extended Travel or Volunteer Work – Spending longer periods in high-risk areas increases exposure.
Visiting Family or Friends Abroad – Some travellers mistakenly assume they have immunity if they were born in a malaria-endemic country but have since lived in a malaria-free region.
If you plan to engage in any of these activities, Chelsea Green Pharmacy Travel Clinic can help you select the best malaria tablets and protection strategies tailored to your trip.
Malaria Tablets: Essential Protection for Travellers
The most effective way to protect against malaria is through preventative medication. Depending on your destination, medical history, and length of stay, different malaria tablets may be recommended:
Atovaquone/Proguanil (Malarone) is a popular option, taken daily starting 1-2 days before travel and continued for one week after returning.
Doxycycline is taken daily, starting two days before travel and continuing for four weeks after return.
Mefloquine (Lariam) is a weekly tablet suitable for long trips, but which may cause side effects in some individuals.
Our pharmacists at Chelsea Green Pharmacy can provide personalised advice on the best malaria tablets based on your itinerary and medical history.
Reach out to us today to find out about the best vaccination and prevention options for you.
Other Mosquito-Borne Illnesses to Be Aware Of
Malaria is not the only disease transmitted by mosquitoes. Other serious infections can pose a risk to travellers, including:
Yellow Fever
Yellow Fever is a viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes in Africa and South America. Symptoms range from mild fever to severe complications, including liver failure. Some countries require proof of Yellow Fever vaccination for entry.
As a designated Yellow Fever vaccination centre, Chelsea Green Pharmacy provides the Yellow Fever vaccine along with official Yellow Fever certificates required for travel.
Dengue Fever
Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection found in tropical regions of Asia, the Caribbean, and South America. There is no specific treatment, so prevention through mosquito bite avoidance is key. In some cases, the Dengue vaccine may be recommended.
Japanese Encephalitis
Japanese encephalitis is a serious viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes, primarily found in Asia and the Western Pacific. It can cause severe neurological complications, including inflammation of the brain. Travelers to rural and agricultural areas are at higher risk. Protection against mosquito bites is crucial, and vaccination is recommended for those spending extended time in affected regions.
How Chelsea Green Pharmacy Can Support You
At Chelsea Green Pharmacy, we offer a comprehensive travel health service to ensure you are fully protected before your trip. Our services include:
- Malaria tablets tailored to your travel plans.
- Yellow Fever vaccinations and certificates for entry requirements.
- Advice on preventing mosquito bites, including recommended insect repellents.
- Vaccinations for other mosquito-borne illnesses, such as Japanese Encephalitis.
- General travel health consultations to address all medical concerns.
Additional Precautions to Reduce Your Risk
Alongside taking malaria tablets and getting the necessary vaccinations, follow these extra precautions to minimise mosquito bites:
Use insect repellent with DEET – Apply it to exposed skin and clothing.
Wear long-sleeved clothing and trousers – Especially at dawn and dusk.
Sleep under a mosquito net – Particularly in high-risk areas.
Stay in air-conditioned or screened accommodations – Reducing mosquito exposure indoors.
Avoid stagnant water areas – Mosquitoes breed in still water.
Stay Protected with Chelsea Green Pharmacy
If you’re travelling to a malaria zone or a region with other mosquito-borne diseases, don’t leave your health to chance. At Chelsea Green Pharmacy, our travel health experts will ensure you have the right malaria tablets, vaccinations, and advice for a safe journey.
Book an appointment today to discuss your travel health needs and get your essential vaccinations before you depart.
Travel smart, stay protected, and enjoy your adventure with confidence!
