## Do I Need Antimalarial Meds When Traveling to Africa?
Whether or not you need antimalarial medication when traveling to Africa depends on a number of factors, including your itinerary, the time of year you are traveling, and your personal health history.
Malaria Risk in Africa
Malaria is a serious disease that is transmitted by mosquitoes. It can cause fever, chills, sweating, headache, and muscle pain. In severe cases, malaria can be fatal.
The risk of malaria in Africa varies depending on the region. The highest risk areas are in sub-Saharan Africa, where over 90% of malaria cases occur. The risk is lower in North Africa and Southern Africa.
The risk of malaria is also higher during the rainy season, which runs from April to October in most parts of Africa.
Who Should Take Antimalarial Medication?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all travelers to malaria-risk areas take antimalarial medication. This includes travelers to all parts of Africa, except for the following countries:
Algeria
Botswana
Cape Verde
Egypt
Libya
Morocco
Namibia
South Africa
Tunisia
If you are traveling to a malaria-risk area, you should start taking antimalarial medication 1-2 weeks before your trip. You should continue taking the medication for 4 weeks after you return home.
Types of Antimalarial Medication
There are several different types of antimalarial medication available. The most common type is chloroquine. Chloroquine is effective against most strains of malaria, but it is not effective against all strains.
Other types of antimalarial medication include:
Mefloquine
Malarone
Lariam
Artemether/lumefantrine
Your doctor can help you choose the right antimalarial medication for you.
Side Effects of Antimalarial Medication
All antimalarial medication can cause side effects. The most common side effects include:
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Headache
Dizziness
Rash
Some antimalarial medication can also cause more serious side effects, such as:
Liver damage
Kidney damage
Heart problems
Neuropsychiatric problems
Your doctor can discuss the risks and benefits of antimalarial medication with you.
Alternatives to Antimalarial Medication
If you are unable to take antimalarial medication, there are other ways to reduce your risk of malaria. These include:
Using insect repellent
Wearing long sleeves and pants
Staying in air-conditioned rooms
Sleeping under a mosquito net
If You Get Sick
If you develop symptoms of malaria, such as fever, chills, sweating, headache, and muscle pain, you should seek medical attention immediately. Malaria can be fatal if it is not treated promptly.
Conclusion
The decision of whether or not to take antimalarial medication when traveling to Africa is a personal one. You should discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before making a decision.