Malaria Prophylaxis: What You Need to Know Before You Travel
Planning a trip to a malaria-endemic area? Malaria prophylaxis is an important step in protecting your health. Malaria is a serious mosquito-borne disease that can be life-threatening, but it’s also largely preventable with the right precautions.
If you live in Bentleigh, Victoria, or nearby suburbs, your local GP in Bentleigh can provide expert advice on malaria prevention, including personalised travel health consultations and prescriptions for prophylaxis.
What Is Malaria?
Malaria is caused by parasites from the Plasmodium species, transmitted through the bites of infected Anopheles mosquitoes. The condition causes flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, sweating, nausea, headaches, and muscle pain. In severe cases, it can lead to complications including organ failure and death, especially in young children, pregnant women, and those without prior immunity.
According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms usually appear 10–15 days after the mosquito bite. Without prompt treatment, malaria can progress rapidly.
Why Malaria Prophylaxis Matters
Malaria prophylaxis involves taking medication before, during, and after travel to areas where malaria is present. This dramatically reduces your risk of infection. According to research published in BMJ Clinical Evidence , malaria prophylaxis is highly effective when taken correctly.
There is currently no malaria vaccine that provides full protection for all travellers, so medication and mosquito avoidance remain the main preventive strategies.
Who Should Consider Prophylaxis?
If you’re travelling to countries in:
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Sub-Saharan Africa
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South Asia
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South America
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Papua New Guinea and the Pacific Islands
you should consult a GP in Bentleigh or your nearest travel medicine clinic for advice at least 4–6 weeks before your departure.
Types of Malaria Prevention Medication
There are several antimalarial drugs available. The best choice depends on your destination, length of stay, medical history, and potential side effects. Common options include:
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Atovaquone-proguanil (Malarone®) – Easy to tolerate, taken daily, started 1–2 days before travel and continued for 7 days after return.
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Doxycycline – Also taken daily, but can cause sun sensitivity and stomach upset.
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Mefloquine (Lariam®) – Taken weekly, but may cause vivid dreams or mood changes in some individuals.
Your Bentleigh GP can help you choose the safest and most suitable medication based on your health profile and travel itinerary.
Tips for Effective Malaria Prevention
Prophylactic medication alone is not enough. You must also:
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Use insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin.
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Sleep under a mosquito net treated with insecticide.
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Wear long sleeves and pants, especially after dusk.
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Avoid areas with stagnant water, where mosquitoes breed.
Combining these strategies offers the best protection.
Are There Side Effects?
Most antimalarial drugs are well-tolerated, but side effects can occur. These may include:
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Gastrointestinal upset
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Headaches
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Dizziness
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Allergic reactions (rare)
Talk to your GP if you experience any adverse effects. It’s important not to stop taking the medication without medical advice.
Children and Pregnant Women
Malaria poses higher risks for children and pregnant women. Prophylactic options are available, but only some medications are considered safe during pregnancy. A qualified GP in Bentleigh can provide tailored advice for families or expectant mothers.
What to Do If You Get Sick After Travel
If you develop a fever or feel unwell after returning from a malaria-prone region — even months later — seek medical help immediately. Inform your doctor about your travel history. Malaria can be diagnosed with a simple blood test and is treatable when caught early.
See a GP in Bentleigh for Travel Health
If you’re preparing for international travel, especially to a malaria-endemic area, book a travel consultation at Bentleigh Doctors. Our clinic can:
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Assess your risk based on your destination
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Prescribe appropriate malaria prophylaxis
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Advise on general travel health and vaccinations
Our GPs are well-versed in international health guidelines and will ensure you’re prepared for a safe trip.
Final Thoughts
Malaria prophylaxis is a simple yet vital part of travel preparation. With expert medical advice, the right medication, and practical mosquito avoidance strategies, you can significantly reduce your risk and enjoy your travels with peace of mind.
Don’t leave it too late — contact your GP in Bentleigh for travel health advice today.
References
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Schlagenhauf P. (2010). Malaria chemoprophylaxis. BMJ Clin Evid. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20513543/
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Mayo Clinic. Malaria: Symptoms & Causes. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/malaria/symptoms-causes/syc-20351184
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Better Health Channel. Malaria. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/malaria