How Malaria Is Spread?
As you know, malaria is spread through a bite of an infected mosquito. But there is no special “malaria mosquito” that you can recognize. The mosquitoes that spread malaria look like ordinary mosquitoes.
A mosquito can pick up malaria parasites when it bites someone who is infected. The parasites develop inside the mosquito. If that mosquito later bites another person, it can pass the parasites on.
This is how malaria is spread from one person to another.
How to Protect Yourself from Malaria?
You can do a lot to protect yourself against malaria. Here are simple and practical steps.
Visit a Medical Professional for tailored advice:
Before you travel, visit a doctor or travel clinic. They will advise you based on your health, age, and travel plans. They will also consider other medicines you take. This helps avoid side effects or interactions.
Take Preventive Medication:
Some travellers choose to take malaria prevention tablets. There are three main antimalarial medicines commonly used in Uganda. They all require a doctor’s prescription and a personal consultation, as the best option depends on your medical history, other medicines you take, and how long you will be travelling.
- Atovaquone-proguanil (Malarone): A daily tablet, usually started one or two days before entering a malaria area and continued for several days after leaving. It is a popular choice for shorter trips.
Doxycycline: Daily antibiotic, started one or two days before travel, continued for four weeks after. Increases skin sensitivity and requires sun protection.
- Mefloquine (Lariam): A weekly tablet that needs to be started earlier, usually two to three weeks before travelling.
For a detailed comparison, see the CDC’s malaria guidance for travellers. Your doctor can advise you on which option is most suitable for you.
Protect Yourself from Mosquito Bites:
Preventing mosquito bites is the most important step. It is easy and effective. Apply mosquito repellent with DEET or similar ingredients. Use it on exposed skin. This works very well and is safe when used correctly. Reapply in the evening and at night.
Wear Protective Clothing:
Mosquitoes are most active in the evening. Wear long sleeves, long trousers, and socks after sunset. Light-colored clothes work best. This creates a physical barrier against bites.
In addition to taking your own precautions, the Uganda safari lodges and hotels where you stay also take mosquitoes seriously. Mosquito nets are widely available, and many lodges spray the rooms before bedtime. Staff may also check the room and make sure your mosquito net is properly closed before you go to sleep. Together with your own precautions, these simple measures can help reduce the risk of malaria during your stay.
