Malaria is a disease caused by a tiny parasite which is injected into the bloodstream by a mosquito bite. Only certain species of the Anopheles mosquito carry this parasite. This particular mosquito tends to feed between dusk and dawn. Symptoms of malaria include headache, feeling unwell, chills, shaking, fever and sweats.
Malaria is a very serious disease.
It may cause anemia, jaundice, heart failure, kidney failure, coma, and in some cases, death. People who survive repeated or prolonged episodes of malaria are partially immune to infection. However, this acquired protection wears off a few years after living outside a malaria risk area. Immigrants to Canada from malarious areas still require anti-malaria medication when visiting their homeland. How to protect yourself If you are travelling to a malaria risk area, there are things you need to do before you travel, while you are away, and when you return.