The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued an urgent reminder for travellers heading overseas that a single mosquito bite can be enough to catch malaria, a life-threatening illness. The alert, reported by Express.co.uk, urges tourists to check country-specific health advice before jetting off.
UKHSA warning on social media
In a post shared on X on Tuesday, the UKHSA stated: "Malaria is a serious illness spread by mosquitoes, and you can catch it from a single bite." The agency directed travellers to the TravelHealthPro website for destination-specific guidance.
The NHS explains that malaria is caused by being bitten by an infected mosquito, and that travellers should assess the risk for their particular destination before going. It advises people travelling to areas where malaria is found to seek advice from a GP, nurse, pharmacist or travel clinic, ideally four to six weeks before departure.
Prevention and symptoms
For some travellers, antimalarial tablets may be recommended to reduce the risk of infection. The NHS notes that the appropriate medicine depends on the country being visited, and that advice should be sought in advance. Preventing mosquito bites is also crucial; UK malaria prevention guidance states that bite avoidance should be used alongside any recommended antimalarial medication, with travellers taking suitable precautions based on their destination.
Malaria can become serious quickly if it is not recognised and treated. TravelHealthPro advises that anyone who develops a fever or flu-like illness during or after travel to a malaria-risk area should seek medical attention promptly and inform healthcare professionals of their travel history. The NHS similarly urges urgent medical advice if symptoms develop after returning from a country where malaria is found.
Symptoms can include a high temperature, headache, sweating and chills. The NHS warns that malaria can be very serious if it is not diagnosed and treated quickly.
