Press Releases

November 2007

Safer travel with the latest up-to-date information

Following the recent and unexpected outbreaks of malaria in popular holiday destinations, including Goa and Jamaica, UK travellers are being urged to obtain the most up-to-date travel health information ahead of every single trip - even if they have travelled to the same destination in the past.

Last year, according to the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NATHNaC), Goa was classified as low-risk with only 240 reported cases caused by Plasmodium falciparum, which is the most deadly form of malaria. However, Goa has seen a 300% increase in cases due to this particularly dangerous type in the first six months of 2007 alone. The Ministry of Health in Jamaica has also heightened malaria surveillance and introduced control measures in response to two new cases reported in the capital, Kingston.

‘The risk of malaria can vary from year to year, so it is essential that travellers visit their GP, travel clinic or practice nurse to get the latest travel health advice – even if they have been to an area several times before,’ says Jane Chiodini, a practice nurse and former chair of the Royal College of Nursing Travel Health Forum.

Frances Tuke, a representative for the Association of British Travel Agents, adds: 'With easier access to more affordable travel, many British travellers are trading in their annual trip to Europe for more exotic locations like Africa and Southeast Asia. In fact, there has been a 150% increase in travel to malaria-risk destinations in the last ten years.'

She continues: 'It only takes one bite from an infected mosquito to contract this potentially fatal disease, so it is essential that people are getting up-to-date travel health advice ahead of every, single trip.'

Every year, approximately 2,000 British travellers return home with malaria and last year, 8 people died . Deaths have occurred within 24 hours of the first symptoms of falciparum malaria; however, these deaths and illnesses are avoidable.

To help ensure a safer and healthier holiday, the Malaria Awareness Campaign is urging all travellers to visit their GP, practice nurse or travel clinic to obtain the most up-to-date travel health information. Travellers can protect themselves from malaria by applying insect repellent with at least 50% DEET, using mosquito nets when sleeping, keeping arms, legs and feet covered, and limiting outdoor activities when mosquitoes are active – for example, at dusk and dawn. In addition, the full course of antimalarials should be taken before, during and after travel, as prescribed by your healthcare professional.

For further information and to view case studies of British travellers who have contracted malaria visit www.malariahotspots.co.uk or text 07800 000 571.

> Back to Press Releases