Anti-Malarial Tablets & Travel Protection
Find the right anti-malarial for your itinerary, plus clear prevention tips, so you enjoy a worry-free adventure.
What is Malaria and Why Take Anti-Malarial Medication?
Malaria is a potentially life-threatening disease transmitted by mosquito bites. It’s common in parts of Africa, Asia, Central and South America, and the Middle East. With no available vaccine for many types of malaria, prevention through medication and bite avoidance remains essential.
Anti-malarial medications are an effective way to reduce your risk of contracting malaria while travelling. There are different types of anti-malarial medications, and the choice depends on your travel destination, your health history, and the length of your trip.
We will provide personalised advice on which medication is best suited for you.
Who Should Take Anti-Malarial Medications?
Anti-malarial medication is recommended for anyone travelling to regions where malaria transmission is present. This includes those:
- Visiting sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia, or other malaria-endemic regions.
- Planning an extended stay in a malaria-prone area.
- Have underlying health conditions that increase their risk of complications from malaria. ( immunosuppressed, complex health history)
- Elderly ( over 70 years of age)
- Pregnantwomen, infants and young children
Our clinic will assess your itinerary and health background to advise the most effective protection.
Types of Anti-Malarial Medication
There are several different types of anti-malarial tablets available, including:
- Atovaquone/Proguanil (Malarone) – well-tolerated, taken daily
- Doxycycline – also daily, often used for long trips
- Mefloquine (Lariam) – weekly dosing, not suitable for everyone
When to Start Taking Anti-Malarials
It’s important to start your medication before entering a malaria-endemic area:
- Atovaquone/Proguanil – start 1–2 days before travel
- Doxycycline – start 1–2 days before travel
- Mefloquine – start 2–3 weeks before travel
Atovaquone/ proguanil: £2.00 per tablet
Malarone paediatric: £1.25 per tablet
Doxycycline: £0.65 per capsule
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need anti-malarials for every country?
Not all countries require anti-malarials. Our team will check the latest travel health guidance to determine whether your destination poses a risk.
Are there any side effects?
Most anti-malarial medications are well-tolerated. Some may cause mild nausea, headaches, or sensitivity to sunlight. We’ll review side effects with you during your consultation.
How to Prevent Malaria?
To stay safe while travelling to malaria-endemic regions, you should take preventive measures, including:
- Anti-malarial Medications: Our clinic will prescribe the right anti-malarial medication based on your travel destination and duration of stay.
- Insect Repellent: Use insect repellents containing DEET or Picaridin to protect yourself from mosquito bites. 10% off our range of insect repellents when undertaking a consultation with us.
- Mosquito Nets: Sleep under insecticide-treated mosquito nets when staying in areas where malaria is present.
- Appropriate Clothing: Wear long sleeves and trousers, especially in the evening and early morning when mosquitoes are most active.
What are the symptoms of Malaria?
Symptoms of malaria include fever and chills, sweats and headaches, fatigue and muscle pain, and nausea and vomiting. In severe cases, it can lead to organ failure or death.
Why Choose Us?
- CQC-registered travel health specialists
- Easy to use online booking system
- Competitive pricing
- Located within Audley Mills Pharmacy, Rayleigh, Essex