Malaria occurs in large areas of Central and South America, Hispaniola, sub-Saharan Africa, the Indian subcontinent, southern and southeast Asia, the Middle East, Mexico, Haiti, the Dominican Republic and Oceania. Major cities in Asia and South America are nearly malaria-free, though cities in Africa, India and Pakistan are not. The serious health risk represented by malaria cannot be overemphasized. Prophylaxis is essential and includes both the prevention of mosquito bites and drug prophylaxis. The malaria parasite, a protozoan, is transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito, usually between dusk and dawn.
Personal protection is the best way to prevent malaria and other insect-transmitted diseases.
This means staying in well-screened areas while indoors, wearing clothes that cover most of the body when outdoors, and using mosquito nets when sleeping. Use caution with stronger concentrations. Drug prophylaxis and measures to prevent mosquito bites are essential for divers. Discuss your travel plans with a physician well before departure, since prophylactic drugs require a prescription. Recommendations may differ from various countries, reflecting the differences in approach and availability of medicines.