How To Avoid Malaria

Avoiding malaria primarily involves preventing mosquito bites and, when appropriate, taking preventive medications. Here’s a clear guide to help you stay safe, especially if you’re traveling to or living in malaria-prone areas:

How to Avoid Malaria

Use Mosquito Protection
- Sleep under insecticide-treated mosquito nets (ITNs), especially at night.
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
- Use insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or IR3535 on exposed skin.
- Stay in places with screened windows or air conditioning.
Take Antimalarial Medications (Chemoprophylaxis)
- Consult a healthcare provider before traveling to malaria-endemic regions.
- Take prescribed preventive medicines before, during, and after your trip as directed.
- Common drugs include atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine (depending on area and personal health).
Avoid Mosquito Breeding Sites
- Reduce standing water near your living area (e.g., flowerpots, gutters).
- Use larvicides or environmental management to control mosquitoes if possible.
Promptly Treat Fevers and Seek Medical Care
- If you develop fever, chills, or flu-like symptoms after traveling to malaria areas, see a doctor immediately.
- Early diagnosis and treatment prevent complications.
Educate Yourself
- Know the malaria risk for your destination and the seasonal patterns.
- Follow local health advisories.