The link between returning travelers and malaria cases in the U.S.

A recent study found that serious and fatal cases of malaria are more common in the United States than previously thought. The study published in The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene states that most cases of malaria in the US occur in people recently returned from trips to places such as Africa, the Caribbean, and South Asia. 1,500 to 2,000 cases of malaria occur each year in the United States.

Malaria is caused by a parasite, which is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. People with malaria experience fever, chills, and flu like illness. If untreated the disease can lead to severe complications and death. The CDC estimated that malaria killed 429,000 people worldwide in 2015.

Now for the good news: Malaria can be easily prevented with the right medication and insect precautions. Different types of malaria respond to different medications, and at Arcadia Physician’s Travel Clinic we remain current on the latest data about malaria incidence worldwide. We will prescribe the right medication for your destination and travel plans. When traveling to malaria areas wear long sleeved shirts and long pants that have been treated with permethrin to repel insects. Topical repellants such as DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus should be applied to any exposed skin. Sleep in air-conditioned accommodations, or if that is not possible sleep under a mosquito bed net. With the right safeguards in place you can experience adventure and explore the world without risking unnecessary disease.

For a more detailed overview of the above mentioned malaria study, read the NY Times article found here

For more information about malaria from the CDC, follow this link