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Name:
Alex Beard

Age when contracted malaria:
20

Occupation:
Freelance journalist

Where did she contract the disease:
Ghana

Type of travel:
Study Gap

Situation: Alex contracted the most dangerous form of malaria, falciparum, while studying at Accra University in Ghana. Shortly into Alex's trip her strict routine began to weaken and Alex soon forgot to take her antimalarials. After three weeks of feeling incredibly ill Alex gave in and saw a doctor. After tests she was diagnosed with malaria.

Outcome: Alex continued her travels after a short rest, but suffered from two relapses. It took her over a month to feel herself again. Since her return to England she has been in and out of hospital and has suffered from liver, stomach and various neurological problems. All are believed to stem from malaria. Alex knows that she is lucky to be alive especially as a fellow traveller died from malaria.



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