Anti-Malarial
Anti-Malarials at Ham Pharmacy Group in Richmond & Kingston
Travelling to malaria risk areas requires careful preparation. Malaria is a serious infection spread by infected mosquitoes in tropical and subtropical regions, and without prompt treatment, it can be life-threatening. At Ham Pharmacy Group, we provide expert advice and a full range of anti-malarials to help keep you safe abroad. Our service is available at all three of our pharmacies – Ham Parade, Ham Common, and Ham Village – so protection is always close to home.
What Is Malaria?
Malaria is caused by parasites transmitted through mosquito bites. It is common in parts of Africa, Asia, Central and South America, the Middle East, the Dominican Republic, Haiti, and some Pacific islands. While it is not found in the UK, malaria remains one of the world’s most serious travel-related illnesses. Without prevention or timely treatment, malaria can lead to complications such as organ failure, brain damage, and even death.
Symptoms of Malaria
Symptoms usually appear between 7 and 18 days after infection, though in some cases they can take months to develop. Common signs include:
- High temperature and chills
- Severe headaches and confusion
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea
- Muscle pain and fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Breathing problems, such as cough or sore throat
If you develop these symptoms after returning from travel, seek urgent medical care.
Who Should Consider Anti-Malarial Tablets?
Everyone travelling to high-risk areas should consider malaria prevention. However, certain groups are more vulnerable to severe illness, including:
- Pregnant women
- Young children
- People over 65
- Those with weakened immune systems
If you fall into one of these categories, it’s especially important to book a travel consultation 4–6 weeks before departure.
How to Reduce Your Risk
Taking antimalarial tablets is a key step in preventing infection. Options include medicines such as malarone for malaria prevention, which may be recommended depending on your travel plans and medical history.
In addition, practical measures can help protect you from bites:
- Use insect repellent containing 50% DEET.
- Sleep under insecticide-treated mosquito nets.
- Wear long-sleeved clothing and trousers in the evenings.
- Install screens on doors and windows. Take your antimalarials exactly as prescribed, starting before travel and continuing after your return.
Why Choose Ham Pharmacy Group?
- Three Local Branches – Ham Parade, Ham Common, and Ham Village Pharmacies.
- Personalised Consultations – Tailored advice based on your health and destination.
- Expert Guidance – Clear instructions on how and when to take your medication.
- Trusted Community Care – Serving Richmond, Kingston, Teddington, New Malden, Surbiton, Twickenham, Isleworth, Hampton, Molesey, Thames Ditton, Long Ditton, Tolworth, Sunbury-on-Thames, Walton-on-Thames, Esher, Hersham, and Worcester Park.
Book Your Appointment
Don’t let malaria put your travel plans at risk. Book your consultation today. Our expert pharmacists at Ham Parade, Ham Common, and Ham Village Pharmacies will provide the right anti-malarials and practical prevention advice so you can travel safely and confidently.
FAQs
Most need to be started a few days or weeks before travel – your pharmacist will advise.
Not all destinations pose a malaria risk. We’ll check your itinerary and advise accordingly.
Yes, but the choice of medicine depends on age and weight. Our pharmacists can recommend the right option.
Possible side effects include stomach upset and headache. We’ll explain how to minimise these.
At our Ham Parade, Ham Common, and Ham Village pharmacy in Richmond & Kingston.
