What is Malaria?

Malaria is an infectious disease caused by a parasite, Plasmodium, which infects red blood cells. Malaria is characterized by cycles of chills, fever, pain, and sweating. Malaria has plagued mankind since the beginning of time.

Kosi Bay is classified as a low risk malaria area. Please consult the map for a better understanding of malaria travel risks in South Africa.

Map supplied by www.malaria.org.za.

So what does this mean for the traveler?

If you are staying in any of the high risk areas you are advised to take precautions.

If you are staying in any of the low risk areas adjacent to a high risk area it’s advisable to make sure that if you feel any symptoms you advise your doctor to test for malaria.

The symptoms are easily confused with flu and the common cold, but where flu and the common cold will get better malaria won’t necessarily and can be life threatening.

The best course of action is to do research on malaria and if visiting your doctor make sure you ask for an opinion especially if pregnant or traveling with children under the age of 5. Remember it’s very important to finish your prescription of malaria prophylaxis.

Malaria is very well documented on the web and information is easily found. Some searches on popular search engines will give you all the information you will need. Remember that most reported stats on deaths caused by malaria relate to impoverished areas of the World where good health care is limited or non-existent. Certainly many tropical destinations have malaria and this should not deter the tourist from visiting these areas but make them aware of the dangers and available treatments.

If in doubt ask your doctor and or do some research.