Malaria
Malaria is a parasitic disease caused by genus Plasmodium. The parasite is spread by female Anopheles mosquitoes and five species of Plasmodium regularly infect humans:
- P. falciparum - most dangerous form, accountable for majority of deaths throughout the world
- P. ovale - a relapsing malaria
- P. vivax - a relapsing malaria
- P. malariae - least common type present in UK, may present with late recrudescence after many years
- Plasmodium knowlesi - very rarely imported at present, but capable of producing severe illness
In 2023, there were 1983 cases of malaria imported into the UK, the highest total for 20 years. (1)
In recent years, the incidence of P. vivax in UK travellers has dropped, but in regions where it is a problem, the risk of acquiring vivax malaria is year round.
Plasmodium species that infect humans:
P. falciparum malaria is the most severe being characterised by paroxysms of chills, sweats and haemolysis. Cerebral malaria is a potentially fatal complication.
Protective factors against malaria include sickle cell trait; HLA-B53 positive.
Malaria may also be transmitted by blood transfusion and trans-placentally. Another possible means of transmission is via so-called 'airport malaria' where infected mosquitoes have been transported by air.
Rarely malaria can occur in people without a travel history which is known as "cryptic" malaria
Malaria is a statutorily notifiable disease in England and Wales. It is not endemic in the UK
Reference
- UK Health Security Agency. Malaria prevention guidelines for travellers from the UK (online). Last updated April 2025
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