One worry when travelling on safari is the threat of contracting Malaria. The Malaria parasite is carried by female mosquitoes and can be passed to humans when the mosquito takes a blood meal. Malaria is a potentially deadly disease and is thought to have killed more humans than any other disease throughout history. Fear not, however, as there are plenty of steps the traveller can take to safe guard themselves against contracting Malaria.

For Safari goers, the happy news is that the best time to see the majority of wildlife is during the dry season, when the vegetation is low and the animals congregate in large numbers at the dwindling watering holes and it’s during this dry season that mosquito numbers are at a minimum. Before you travel, a course of anti malarial drugs should be started. These drugs may need to be taken some weeks before you travel, for the duration of your trip and for some time after you return. Some drugs are available over the counter but others require a prescription from your GP.

When you’re on safari, cover your arms and legs when going out in the evening and always wear insect repellent. An insecticide impregnated mosquito net is a must when sleeping outdoors or in an unscreened room.