Warning Amid Rise In Malaria Cases

21/04/2011

Doctors are failing to give the correct advice to patients heading to resorts where they are at risk of mosquito bites, claims a mosquito and malaria specialist.

The claims of Howard Carter follow a report by the Health Protection Agency which warned about an increase in the number of UK malaria cases caused by Plasmodium falciparum, the deadliest form, with 50 such cases associated with travel to or arrival from The Gambia reported in 2010.

Mr Carter said: "Even the strongest form of DEET repellent offers only 94 per cent protection against bites and some species of mosquito are entirely resistant to DEET-based products and was one of the reasons why I developed the incognito repellent spray which is the only product approved by UK trading standards as 'clinically proven to protect against malaria'.

“Protecting yourself against malaria is not just about sprays and medication - covering up, avoiding stagnant water and washing regularly are all important to prevent bites."

While seeking the most up-to-date medical advice before heading abroad and taking certain precautions when visiting areas known to host the disease should help prevent the risk of catching malaria, a travel insurance policy will provide peace of mind should the worst happen and you need hospital care overseas.