It is a disease of the blood. The disease results in fever and flu like symptoms.
Bite prevention is the first mode of prevention.
If you were born in a malaria zone but have lived away, remember that natural immunity is lost quickly and you should consider antimalarials before returning. Tablets should be started one-week before you reach a malarial zone to make sure they are suitable for you. Most cases of malaria are contracted because people stop tablets on return home - they should also be taken while you are away and continued for 4 weeks after leaving a malarial zone. If you are planning to get pregnant - inform your Doctor before you go away. Any flu like symptoms should be mentioned to your Doctor for up to a year after returning from a malarial zone.