 |
|
| Singapore Local Reference INFOrmation
While Singapore itself does not have a problem with malaria, many neighbouring countries do. Residents planning visits to should know what protective medication is available and how to use it for maximum control against bites.
Although Singapore is free of malaria, it is prevalent in all neighbouring countries. Residents of Singapore should be aware of the recommendation to take prophylactic medication if travelling to these areas (travellers are most susceptible in the remote areas outside of main cities). Advice is available from health centres and general practitioners (GPs) in Singapore. Malaria is an infectious disease caused by parasites. It is widespread in tropical and subtropical regions, including South America, Asia and Africa. Every year, more than 500 million people contract malaria, and up to three million people die from the disease.
Malaria parasites are transmitted by the female Anopheles mosquitoes. These parasites are passed on to humans and they multiply within the red blood cells.
Symptoms of MalariaThe symptoms include fever, shivering, joint pain, vomiting and in severe cases, convulsions, which can lead to coma and death. The transmission of malaria can be reduced by preventing mosquito bites with mosquito nets and insect repellents, or by mosquito control measures such as spraying insecticides and draining standing water where mosquitoes can lay their eggs. Treatment of MalariaAlthough some are under development, no vaccine is currently available for malaria. Prophylactic drugs should be taken continuously when in endemic areas. Most of these drugs are actually used for the treatment of malaria, however when taken daily or weekly at a lower dose, they reduce the risk of malaria infection. The modern anti-malaria drugs include:
The prophylactic effect does not begin immediately after the drugs are first taken; visitors to endemic areas should begin taking the anti-malaria medication a few days to two weeks prior to travel and discontinue taking them one to four weeks after leaving (depending on the drug being taken). The choice of which drugs to use depends on many factors, which include:
Each course of malaria prophylaxis medication is tailored specifically to the patient's exposure in a malarial area. Regular visits to infected areas require a return trip to the doctor every time in order to obtain the appropriate prescription. Information supplied by the International Medical Clinic
(IMC)
|
myAngloINFO Stamford American International School (SAIS) A world-class learning institution for children, 2 years and older. An academically rigorous American curriculum enriched with an International accredited program. Strong on ESL and mother tongue; building caring relationships with each child and family. Find out more... Fidgets Singapore's largest indoor playground for children from 0-10, with dedicated baby and toddler play areas. Custom designed by Playtec, with two dedicated party rooms plus a superb cafe full of the latest magazines and newspapers. Something for everybody! Find out more... Fine Palate A leading gourmet catering and events co. run by Heather Barrie. Catering and event coordination for intimate home gatherings to lavish corporate affairs. Catering with cuisine tailored to suit your tastes and needs for all types of parties and events Find out more... Smile Inc. Dental Surgeons Instant Braces by Dr Ernest Rex Tan, Specialist Prosthodontist and Cosmetic Dentist. Instant, Straight, White, Attractively Shaped teeth in 2 Visits. No Extractions. No Wires. No Relapses. Individually Designed Cosmetic Solutions for Perfect Smiles.Suntec Find out more... Today
Essential INFOrmation Living In Singapore Moving to Singapore Life in Singapore |
Share
Print
+
Related reference INFOrmation on AngloINFO Singapore:
The Weather:
Relax for a few minutes in our online leisure zoneCopyright © 2000-2009 AngloINFO Limited. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy, Terms of Use, About, Advertising, Contact.
AngloINFO: Everyday life in Singapore