Travelling abroad?
Lambeth Local Authority has asked me to share the following advice with any families travelling overseas this Summer holiday:
Travelling this summer? Make Sure You Protect
Yourself from Malaria
- A. Be aware of the risk:
- Malaria can kill even if you have had it before
Nearly 2000 people (children and adults) a year return to the UK from their travels with malaria. Last year, in South East London alone there were around 200 cases
- You ARE NOT protected against malaria If you came from country with malaria and have lived in UK for more than 6 months .There is no evidence of natural immunity against malaria in people who have lived in the UK for longer than 6 months, even if they were born and grew up in Africa or Asia.
- B. Avoid insect bites:
- Wear long sleeved tops and trousers between sunset and sunrise.
- Sleep under an insecticide-treated mosquito net.
- Applyan insect repellent containing DEET.
- C. Take malaria tablets
- Antimalarial tablets do not always cost alot – speak to your GP
Antimalarial tablets protect you from malaria most of the time. There is no evidence that homeopathic and herbal medicines and plant products will youprotect against malaria.
- Speak to your GP or practice nurse about the country you are going to visit for advice about anti-malarial tablets . You can also visit the NaTHNaC website for country-specific advice http://www.nathnac.org/travel/index.htm
D. Seek early diagnosis if you become unwell after you return
