If you’re planning a trip to a tropical destination, it’s essential to be well-informed about potential health risks, including malaria. At our travel health appointments, we regularly help travellers prepare for trips to regions where malaria is a concern. Whether you’re heading to sub-Saharan Africa, parts of Asia, or South America, being properly protected can make all the difference to your health and peace of mind.

In this post, we’ll explain what malaria is, how it spreads, what symptoms to watch for, and most importantly—how to prevent it. We’ll also address a common question we hear at our travel clinic: is malaria contagious?

What is Malaria?

Malaria is a serious tropical disease caused by a parasite called Plasmodium. It is transmitted to humans through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. Once inside the body, the parasite travels to the liver, where it multiplies before attacking red blood cells. Without treatment, malaria can become life-threatening.

There are several types of malaria, but Plasmodium falciparum is the most dangerous and is common in many parts of Africa. Other strains may be found in areas of Asia, Central and South America, and the Pacific Islands.

Is Malaria Contagious?

One of the most common questions we hear is: is malaria contagious? The short answer is no—malaria is not contagious in the way flu or a cold might be. You cannot catch malaria by being near someone who has it, nor can it spread through coughing, sneezing, touching, or sharing utensils.

Malaria is only transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. In rare cases, it can be passed through blood transfusions, organ transplants, or from mother to baby during childbirth, but these instances are extremely uncommon and are not relevant for most travellers.

So while it’s not contagious, it is still a serious risk if you’re visiting a malaria-endemic area—and taking steps to protect yourself is essential.

Symptoms of Malaria

Malaria symptoms typically appear 7 to 18 days after being bitten, though they can take longer depending on the parasite type and use of preventive medication. Common symptoms include:

• –> Fever and chills

• –> Sweating

• –> Headaches

• –> Muscle aches

• –> Nausea and vomiting

• –> Diarrhoea

• –> Fatigue

In severe cases, malaria can lead to complications such as kidney failure, seizures, or even death. That’s why early diagnosis and treatment are vital if symptoms develop during or after travel.

Malaria Prevention: What You Need to Do

Preventing malaria involves more than just one step—it’s a combination of measures that work together to reduce your risk. Here’s what we recommend at Townhead Pharmacy:

1. Visit a Travel Clinic Before You Go

You should book an appointment with a travel clinic at least 6–8 weeks before departure. This gives you time to receive personalised travel health advice, antimalarial medication if required, and other recommended vaccinations.

At Townhead Pharmacy, our experienced team can assess your destination, planned activities, and medical history to determine the best course of protection for you.

2. Take Antimalarial Medication

Depending on your travel destination, we may recommend a course of antimalarial tablets. These need to be started before you enter a risk area, continued during your stay, and taken for a period after your return home.

There are several options, including:

–> Atovaquone/proguanil (Malarone)

–> Doxycycline

–> Mefloquine (Lariam)

We’ll help you choose the most suitable one based on your needs, potential side effects, and duration of travel.

3. Practise Mosquito Bite Avoidance

Even with medication, it’s important to avoid mosquito bites altogether. Simple steps include:

• –> Using insect repellent containing DEET

• –> Wearing long sleeves and trousers in the evening and at night

• –> Sleeping under a mosquito net if you’re in basic accommodation

• –> Staying in rooms with air conditioning or screened windows and doors

What If You Feel Unwell After Travelling?

If you return from a malaria-risk area and experience flu-like symptoms—even weeks later—seek medical advice immediately. Be sure to tell the healthcare professional where you’ve been, even if you took antimalarial medication. Early diagnosis saves lives.

Trust Townhead Pharmacy for Travel Health Advice

At Townhead Pharmacy in Kilwinning, we’re proud to support our community with expert travel health services. From tailored malaria prevention plans to travel vaccinations and destination-specific advice, we’ve got you covered.

Whether you’re going on a safari in Kenya, trekking in India, or backpacking through the Amazon, we can help you stay safe and healthy throughout your journey. If you’re asking yourself “is malaria contagious?” or wondering how to prepare—now is the time to book your travel health consultation.

Stop by our pharmacy or contact us today to arrange your appointment. Safe travels!

This blog was written on behalf of Townhead Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.