Exposing The Myths

It is important to separate myths from facts when protecting yourself from a deadly disease such as malaria.

I hardly ever get bitten and barely react to mosquito bites so I don't need to take any precautions

Everyone's bodies react differently to mosquito bites but this is no indication of whether you have been bitten by a malaria-carrying mosquito. It only takes one bite to contract malaria.

I'm going to a malarious destination in the dry season so I'll be fine

Many countries do have wet and dry seasons, and in the wet season mosquito activity is increased. However mosquitoes may still be active in the dry season. It is important that you seek advice from a healthcare professional and follow the recommended precautions.

Antimalarials are not 100% effective therefore there is no point taking them

Taken as recommended, antimalarials are 90 - 100 % effective, and in combination with good bite prevention can help stop you contracting malaria. Remember, malaria can be deadly.

All antimalarials have bad side-effects that are worse than catching malaria

Catching malaria could put you in hospital and out of action for weeks. It could even kill you. There are different types of antimalarials - talk to your healthcare professional about the best one for you.

I'm taking homeopathic medicines to protect against malaria so I don't need to do anything else to protect myself

There is no evidence that homeopathic or herbal medication will protect you from malaria. Seek advice on antimalarial medication and bite avoidance precautions from a healthcare professional before you travel.

I'm only going to be in a malarious area for a couple of days so I don't need to bother taking precautions

It only takes one bite from an infected mosquito to contact malaria. So even if you are in a malarious area for a short period you still need to take advice from a healthcare professional and follow their recommendations.

My friend went to the same place that I'm going to and said that you don't need to take precautions there

When dealing with a potentially fatal disease it is important not to take risks. Follow the advice of a qualified healthcare professional and if you have been advised to take bite avoidance measures and/or antimalarials you should continue to do so. It's not worth gambling your life on the advice of friends or other unqualified people.

EXPOSING OTHER COMMON MYTHS:

• Garlic, vitamin B and ultrasound devices will not protect you against malaria.
• Eating Marmite® or other savoury yeast extract spread will not prevent malaria.
• Staying in a four or five star hotel, will not stop you getting bitten or contracting malaria Mosquitoes don't discriminate.
• Drinking gin and tonic will not stop you getting bitten or contracting malaria.

What you need to know >