Be malaria savvy while travelling during the pandemic

TRAVEL restrictions have been lifted and we can finally dust off our luggage and get excited about travel again.

But this does not mean we must become complacent when it comes to keeping safe and healthy while travelling, and does not apply to Covid-19 precautions alone.

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Malaria is still a deadly disease that continues to plague the world. Last year’s world malaria report estimates that Sub-Saharan Africa accounts for approximately 93% of all malaria cases in the world.

If you are going away for business or planning a holiday, here are few helpful travel tips from ‘Malaria No More’ to keep in mind to avoid spoiling your relaxing, long-awaited trip with the life-threatening side effects of malaria:

Before travel
Do your homework.
Whether you’ll be travelling within South Africa or taking advantage of the international travel ban being lifted to head overseas, you’ll need to first find out whether your destination is an at-risk area for malaria.

Visit a healthcare professional
While Google is always your friend, it’s a good idea to pay a visit to your doctor or local pharmacy, who will be able to offer you the best malaria advice ahead of your trip.
A healthcare professional will have the low-down on which destinations require travellers to dose up on vaccines and/or malaria medication based on latest health updates and governmental guidelines and which types of medications will work best for you and your family’s needs.
Don’t forget to stock up on a few bottles of good quality mosquito spray.

During (and after) travel
Take cover.
Now that you’ve taken the right medical precautions, it’s time to check that you’ve packed right.
Along with your sun hats, SPF, sandals and swimming costumes, make sure you’ve included long-sleeves, leggings, full trousers and long socks as part of your luggage essentials for travelling to high-risk malaria zones.
Also be sure to carry a mosquito net infused with insecticide that’s large enough to cover the bed you’ll be sleeping on, and don’t forget to tuck the ends under your mattress for a better shield against those dreaded buzzing enemies.

Watch where you lay
As awesome as it may be to sleep under stars, it’s safer to opt for indoor accommodation in malaria hotspots.

When to worry
If during or up to a week or two after your travels you or your travel companions begin to develop a fever, headaches, chills and fatigue, drop whatever you’re doing and seek medical attention immediately. Bear in mind that malaria, flu and Covid-19 all share common symptoms.

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