Malaria
Overview
Malaria is caused by being bitten by an infected mosquito. It's not found in the UK and you cannot catch it from another person.
You can prevent malaria by taking antimalarial medicine and trying to avoid being bitten by mosquitos, such as using insect repellent.
Malaria is treated using antimalarial medicines. Some people will need to stay in hospital for specialist care and treatment.
Malaria is a serious infection spread by mosquitoes found in some parts of the world. You can die from it if it's not diagnosed and treated quickly.
Page last reviewed: 18/02/2022
Next review due: 18/02/2025