Malaria in Developing Countries

ABSTRACT

Malaria still poses a real threat to travellers; particularly in areas with high transmission rates such as sub-Saharan Africa; Papua New Guinea; and the South Pacific islands. Malaria causes an estimated 660;000 deaths each year from 219 million cases of illness. It is a preventable and curable disease. Malaria symptoms appear after a period of seven days or longer; and without treatment; the disease can lead to death. Mosquito bite prevention is the main way to reduce malaria transmission. Chemoprophylaxis recommendations depend on travelers' age; destination; type of travelling; or length of stay. Pregnant women; children; and immunosuppressed travelers are the most susceptible. There are currently no licensed vaccines against malaria. Results about a research vaccine candidate known as RTS;S/AS01 are expected in 2015