April 25 is World Malaria Day. If you are planning an international trip this summer, ensure your family’s safety with a few basic tips about preventing malaria. Gutter Helmet® of Minnesota shares the “ABCD” of malaria prevention and discusses how gutter caps can keep mosquitoes at bay.
Risk Factors
The good news is that there are no known active malaria transmission cases in the United States. However, non-immune travelers, as well as those who have not traveled outside of the country in the past six months, are at risk. Malaria transmission occurs through mosquito bites in at-risk areas or countries. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent malaria infection:
The ABCD of Malaria Prevention
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Awareness of Risk — Part of travel preparation is researching the place you’re going to — the food, hotels and sites to see. Make sure you take the time to look up health advisories as well. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website provides up-to-date information regarding areas with known health risks such as malaria. If the risks are restricted to a specific area, plan your trip around it, or make sure you take proper precautions.
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Bite Prevention — There are ways to reduce the risk of getting bitten by carrier mosquitoes. Wear EPA-registered insect repellent when going out. Avoid wearing shorts, tank tops and other types of clothing that expose the skin to mosquito bites. Sleep on a bed equipped with a mosquito net, and use insect screens on windows if you need room ventilation.
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Chemoprophylaxis — Malaria prevention drugs can be taken continuously within four weeks after leaving the at-risk area.
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Diagnosis — Consult a doctor immediately if symptoms of malaria develop one week or more after you enter an area with known malaria risk, and up to three months after departure from the same area.
Keeping Mosquitoes Out of Your Home
Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water in containers such as buckets, empty cans and clogged gutters. Have your gutters regularly cleaned and maintained to prevent standing water. Better yet, consider investing in gutter caps like Gutter Helmet.
Gutter Helmet® of Minnesota is your leading provider of gutter protection systems. Give us a call at (866) 200-5339 or fill out our contact form. We serve clients in Monticello, MN, and surrounding areas.
