KINGSTON, Jamaica – Following the identification of two imported cases of malaria in Jamaica, the Ministry of Health is urging individuals to be cautious when travelling to areas affected by malaria. 

The symptoms of malaria include fever, chills, headache, sweats, fatigue, nausea, and vomiting.

The ministry said on Sunday that some population groups are at considerably higher risk of contracting malaria, and developing severe disease, than others. These include pregnant women, infants, children under five years of age, patients with HIV/AIDS, as well as non-immune migrants, mobile populations and travellers. 

The ministry is therefore advising people to contact physicians or health centres before travelling to malaria endemic areas. 

“Prevention medications are available in Jamaica. You should start taking anti-malarial drugs before you travel, take them during your travels, and continue to take them for up to one month after your return,” the release stated.

The ministry also stated that contact should be made if there is a development of any of the listed symptoms after returning from malaria-affected territories.