Popularity of exotic holidays are on the increase, but are we aware of the precautions that are required for fatal disease such as malaria? Glaxo Smith Kline’s attempt to educate and combat complacency of this potentially deadly disease has raised some awareness but research has found that majority of UK residents remain ignorant of the health risks when travelling to countries with high malaria risk.
Facts:
Estimated 500 million worldwide cases of malaria are reported each year
100 countries have malaria endemic
5 million Britons travel to these countries a year, 60 per cent fail to seek travel health advice and 25 per cent were unaware of the potential risks.
2000 Britons return to the UK with this disease
Estimated at least one million die from malaria annually worldwide
Malaria Symptoms
In the initial stages symptoms include: fever, aches and pains, vomiting, coughing, diarrhoea, headache. With a severe case symptoms can include, renal failure, convulsions and coma.
How To Prevent Malaria
Be aware of the malaria risk in the area you are visiting. Seek advice from your doctor, travel agent or visit malariahotspots.co.uk
Prevent bites, keep skin covered up between sunset and sunrise, keep windows closed at night, use mosquito repellent and nets.
Get the correct type of anti-malaria for the area you are visiting and finish the course.
If any of the symptoms occur seek medical advice immediately.
