Malaria deaths are down but travellers still need protection

However, according to the organisation Roll Back Malaria, deaths from malaria around the world have fallen by 20 percent during the past 10 years. Since malaria kills many hundreds of thousands of people worldwide every year – 90 percent of whom live in Africa – that really is good news.

In 2000, around 984,000 people died as a result of contracting malaria, whereas in 2009 the figure had dropped to 781,000. Additionally, three countries have recently been certified malaria-free by the World Health Organisation, namely Morocco, Turkmenistan and the United Arab Emirates.

The news represents significant progress, thanks to a boost in funds aimed at tackling malaria. The foundation run by computer billionaire Bill Gates and his wife Melinda is just one of the organisations that has injected lots of much-needed cash into fighting the disease.

So what does that mean for people from this country? According to the Health Protection Agency, during the five years between 2006 and 2010 there has been an average of 1,600 cases of travellers returning home with malaria every year. Encouragingly, this figure represents 20 percent fewer cases compared to 10 years ago. But since malaria is not endemic in the UK, it could be so much lower.

Here's a quick run-down of what the HPA advises travellers from the UK who are going to malaria-risk countries:

• Ask your doctor, nurse of pharmacist if there is malaria in the country you're travelling to – and do it well in advance, at least six to eight weeks before you travel (though even last-minute advice could help protect you against the disease).
• Use an insect repellent that contains the chemical DEET, available from pharmacies. Follow the instructions on the packaging and don't forget to reapply frequently. Also pack a mosquito net that has been treated with DEET-containing insecticide to keep you safe while you sleep
• Wear long trousers and sleeves after sunset, and treat your clothes with insecticides too.
• Take anti-malaria tablets – ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist about which type you and your family need. Follow their advice carefully on how to take them – for instance, you should start taking anti-malarials before you go away and also keep taking them for a while when you come home. Always finish the course of tablets.
• If you do become unwell for up to a year after you return home – especially if you have a high temperature or flu-like symptoms – don't delay, see your doctor.

Find out more about travel health by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre website.