Fight the Bite: Prevention starts with you
LGT has launched its Fight the Bite campaign ahead of World Malaria Day on 25 April, calling on patients and travellers to take early action to reduce the risk of malaria.
Each year, LGT treats around 115 cases of malaria, which is 8% of all UK cases, yet nearly all of these cases are preventable. The campaign aims to increase uptake of pre travel advice and anti-malarial medication among higher risk travellers in Greenwich, Bexley and Lewisham.
Malaria is a serious and potentially fatal illness. Previous infection does not provide immunity, and risk remains with every visit to affected regions, particularly parts of West Africa.
Prevention is highly effective. Anti-malarial medication works, but only if it is started before travel. This step is too often missed.
A fever or feeling unwell after travel should never be dismissed. It is a medical emergency until malaria has been ruled out.
What travellers should do
- Seek pre travel health advice well before departure
- Obtain anti-malarial medication from a GP, travel clinic or local pharmacy
- Medication typically costs around £20 to £30 for an average trip
- Take medication before, during and after travel as prescribed
- Use bite prevention measures such as insect repellent and mosquito nets
- Seek urgent medical care if unwell after travel
- inform healthcare professionals about recent travel
What clinicians should do
- Ask about upcoming travel during routine consultations
- Provide timely pre travel advice for malaria risk areas
- Prescribe appropriate chemoprophylaxis without delay
- Consider malaria in any patient with fever and recent travel history
Fight the Bite reinforces a simple message that early action before travel can prevent serious illness.