If you plan on travelling to a tropical or sub-tropical region it’s important to safe guard yourself against contracting malaria. This potentially deadly disease, one of the world’s biggest killers, is spread via mosquito bites. Planning your travel for a time of year when mosquito numbers are low, typically during a dry season, is a good start. The mosquitoes breed in standing water so during dry spells there are naturally fewer of the little blighters around.
Anti-malarial drugs are a must, though it should be noted that these are not 100% effective. There’s a couple of brands available over the counter but others need a prescription so see your GP well in advance of travelling. You’ll need to check which other vaccines you may need for your travels, too. Typically, a course of anti-malarial drugs starts a couple of weeks before you travel and up to five weeks after you return home.
When you’re at your destination, cover up well when going out in the evening when the mosquitoes are most active and wear insect repellent. Mosquito nets are a must if sleeping outdoors or in an un-screened room so be well prepared.