Malaria Outbreaks in the Dominican Republic and Jamaica

There have been recent reports of malaria threats to travelers in the media. The Public Health Agency of Canada has recently (Jan 29 th , 2007) put together some statements to clarify and reassure travelers going to these destinations.

Malaria is a parasite only transmitted by specific species of night biting mosquitoes. People are at risk only if they are in the right place at the wrong time.

The Dominican Republic has had malaria in the La Algracia (Far western province), which includes Punta Cana for several years. Travelers going there and to rural areas should take precautions against night biting mosquitoes and take an antimalarial medication. There are several types of antimalarials available effective for the Dominican Republic and Chloroquine is most commonly prescribed although others may be used.

Even taking a medication and being careful to avoid mosquitoes is not enough, to guarantee complete safety so any travelers with fevers after being in a malarious area should notify their doctor. Since malarious mosquitoes bite at night travelers passing through such areas in the day do not need malaria medication.

Jamaica has also had recent malaria cases in the city of Kingston and surrounding areas. Most Canadian travelers are going to resorts such as Ocho Rios and Montego Bay where there is no risk. If they fly into Kingston and travel to their resort during the day there is no risk.

The Bahamas was also considered a possible malarious risk area for travelers in December 2006; but on closer examination was determined not to be a malaria risk for travelers. Travelers to the Bahamas do not need to worry about malaria.

The complete recommendations of the Public Health Agency of Canada may be viewed at;

Dominican Republic

http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/tmp-pmv/2007/mal_dr070129_e.html

Jamaica

http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/tmp-pmv/2007/mal_jam07129_e.html

Detailed maps of the areas of malaria concern for both countries are provided.

Further information is available on my website www.skylarkmedicalclinic.com which describes many ways for travelers to avoid tropical diseases.

Malaria risks can be confusing to travelers.

Each person should be assessed for risks and what type of medication they may receive since some medical conditions and pharmaceuticals interact with antimalarial drugs. If you have questions about malaria you may phone our clinic line at 453-9107 to speak with a receptionist, nurse, or doctor to find out if you require antimalarial medications or immunizations. Our information line can only give limited information based on geographic information and cannot comment on any individual medical concerns. Information specific for any person must be determined in person by a doctor or nurse.