What are the precautions to be taken before traveling to a malaria-endemic zone?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 30-year-old male planning a trip to a malaria-endemic zone, and I am interested in learning more about the malaria vaccine. Can you provide information on the availability, effectiveness, and recommended dosage for the malaria vaccine? Additionally, are there any specific precautions or considerations I should be aware of before getting vaccinated, and how soon before the trip should I receive the vaccine for optimal protection? Please suggest.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Two malaria vaccines have been recommended for broader use by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):

RTS, S/AS01 (RTS, S): This vaccine was the first malaria vaccine to be recommended for broader use in children aged 6 months to 17 months living in regions with moderate to high malaria transmission. The RTS, S vaccine is given in a series of 4 doses, with the first dose given at least six months of age and the subsequent doses given at monthly intervals. The vaccine is partially effective at preventing malaria, with an overall efficacy of about 30 to 40 %. However, it is particularly effective at preventing severe malaria and death from malaria.
R21/Matrix-M: This vaccine is a newer vaccine that is currently being evaluated for wider use. It is more effective than RTS, S, with an overall efficacy of about 70 %. However, it is still under development and is not yet available for routine use.

The RTS, S vaccine is generally safe and well-tolerated. The most common side effects are pain, redness, and swelling at the injection site, as well as fever, headache, and fatigue. These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own within a few days. The CDC recommends that all travelers to areas with malaria take antimalarial medication to prevent infection. However, the RTS, S vaccine can be used in combination with antimalarial medication to provide additional protection.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.