Here in the UK we aren’t as susceptible to malaria because of our climate, but in many warmer parts of the world it is still a serious threat that can have devastating effects on those who contract it.

Cases of malaria can be found in over 100 different countries and territories, putting almost half of the globe’s population at risk. It’s most often spread in parts of Africa, southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands, Central and South America, the Middle East, Oceania, and the Caribbean. If you will be travelling to a region where malaria is endemic, you will need to take certain precautions to protect yourself from becoming infected.

How is Malaria Spread?
Malaria is spread through the bites of infected mosquitos. When a specific type of mosquito called an Anopheles mosquito bites an infected person or animal, they are taking a blood meal that contains malaria parasites. When the mosquito takes its next blood meal, these parasites are injected into the person being bitten.

Unlike colds and flus, malaria isn’t contagious and can’t be spread from person to person. The only way to get malaria from another person is by sharing needles or receiving blood or organs from an infected person. A pregnant mother with malaria may spread the disease to her baby.

Symptoms of Malaria
Malaria has an incubation period of 10 days to 4 weeks so you may not know right away if you have contracted it. It is even possible to not experience symptoms for months after exposure. The first symptoms are usually similar to those you experience when you have the flu, such as fever, headaches, fatigue, and muscle aches. The symptoms will continue to become worse as the disease progresses.

• Nausea
• Sweats and chills
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhoea
• Jaundice
• Loss of appetite

If malaria remains untreated, life-threatening complications can develop. Your kidneys may begin to shut down and you might find yourself becoming confused and delirious. Seizures, coma, and death often follow once the infection becomes more severe.

How to Prevent Malaria Limiting your exposure is key to preventing malaria because you may not always be nearby adequate medical care once you become sick. This can be done by wearing long sleeves and pants, using mosquito repellant, keeping your windows closed, and sleeping under mosquito nets at night.

In addition to taking these steps, you can also take anti-malaria medications like Doxycycline tablets.

How Does Doxycycline Work?
Doxycycline can provide up to 90-100% protection against malaria when it is taken correctly. Its active ingredient, doxycycline hyclate, prevents the malaria parasite from being able to take hold and grow within your body if you become infected.

Side Effects of Doxycycline
Like any medication, some people taking doxycycline may experience side effects. Usually these effects are outweighed by the therapeutic uses of the medication.

• Headache
• Nausea
• Light sensitivity
• Vomiting

Who Can Take Doxycycline?
Doxycycline is generally safe for people over the age of 12. It shouldn’t be taken if you have lupus, kidney or liver problems, or are pregnant or breastfeeding. You also shouldn't take doxycycline if you have previously had an allergic reaction to it.

If you are going to be travelling to a region where you may be exposed to malaria buy Doxycycline Tablets online in the UK from Pharmacy Planet. We also sell other anti-malaria medications like Lariam and Malarone tablets online. Visit our website or contact us today to find out more.