Malaria is a disease caused by a parasite spread to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes. The disease is common in tropical and subtropical regions. Thousands of people worldwide are infected with malaria annually, and hundreds die from the disease.
Trekkers are unlikely to contract malaria at higher altitudes on Mount Kilimanjaro because mosquitoes that spread malaria cannot survive in the very cold and high altitudes above 2,000 meters. However, Tanzania remains a high-risk country for malaria, and precautions are necessary to prevent infection.
Risk Factors
People traveling to Tanzania are at risk of malaria, although the likelihood depends on the precautions taken to avoid mosquito bites, the season of travel, and local malaria control measures.
Signs and Symptoms
Common signs and symptoms of malaria include:
- Fever.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Muscle or joint pain.
- Fatigue.
- Headache.
- Chills.
- Discomfort.
- Abdominal pain.
In some cases, people experience cycles of malaria attacks, with symptoms subsiding temporarily before recurring. Symptoms typically appear a few weeks after being bitten by an infected mosquito, although some parasites can remain dormant in the body for up to one year.
People living in regions with malaria often develop partial immunity, reducing the disease’s severity. However, travelers from non-malarial areas are at higher risk of severe illness.
Preventive Measures
Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk. While there is no vaccine for malaria yet, the World Health Organization is researching vaccines for children under three years old.
Below are ways to prevent malaria during your visit to Tanzania:
- Use Insect Repellents: Bring insect repellents registered with the Environmental Protection Agency. Applying repellents should be a priority to reduce the risk of mosquito bites.
- Take Anti-Malarial Drugs: Consult your doctor before traveling to Tanzania for a prescription of anti-malarial drugs. These drugs are taken before, during, and sometimes after the trip to prevent infection.
- Sleep Under Treated Mosquito Nets: Book accommodations with treated mosquito nets to prevent mosquitoes from entering and biting you while sleeping.
- Wear Long-Sleeved Clothing: Wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, and socks to minimize skin exposure to mosquitoes. Some repellents can be applied to clothing for additional protection.
- Stay Indoors During Mosquito Activity Times: Mosquitoes are active at night. Stay indoors and close doors and windows by 5 pm to prevent mosquitoes from entering your living space.
The chances of contracting malaria while hiking Mount Kilimanjaro are low since most climbs begin at altitudes of 1,500 meters, and mosquitoes cannot survive above 2,000 meters. However, it is possible to be bitten by a mosquito before the climb, which could lead to symptoms developing during your trek.
If you notice signs of malaria, seek immediate medical attention to prevent severe complications. Untreated malaria can quickly become fatal, so prompt action is essential.