Malaria ‘being fought by immunisation’

Cases of malaria being brought back to the UK are not increasing significantly, despite more people visiting countries where the disease is prevalent, it has been reported.

Cases of malaria being brought back to the UK are not increasing significantly, despite more people visiting countries where the disease is prevalent, it has been reported.

According to Medical Advisory Services for Travellers Abroad (Masta), there are only about 2,000 reported cases a year of malaria being brought back, reports the Yorkshire Post.

This was mostly attributed to people diligently making sure they are immunised against the disease.

Michelle Sellors, a senior nurse adviser with Masta, told the Yorkshire Post: “The biggest risk is people visiting friends and family and bringing infections back, rather than holiday travellers.”

Dr Ron Behrens, a consultant in tropical and travel medicine at the London Hospital for Tropical Diseases, added that holidaymakers are more at risk from being injured in road accidents than as a result of malaria.

Recently, Jacqui Jedrzejewski, spokesperson for NHS Direct, said that those heading to destinations where there is a threat of malaria – for example those going on holidays to India – should always visit their GP in order to discuss the most appropriate medication.