Sleeping under a mosquito net when mosquitoes are active at night. If possible avoid going out between dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes commonly bite. Wear long sleeved clothing and trousers. Dark colours attract mosquitoes. Apply mosquito’s repellents to exposed skin and clothing. Sleep in rooms with windows and doors screened with mosquito netting.

Malaria prophylaxes tends to protect the kidneys against malaria infection, hence consuming excess alcohol can cause the body to go into shock, Elderly persons on prophylaxes are advised not to consume alcohol especially when flying, as alcohol has a dehydrating effect on the body.

Some form of malaria prophylactic (pills) is usually regarded as essential. We strongly recommend that you visit a travel clinic or your GP to get the latest advice.

No malaria is not necessary for Brazil a good mosquito repellant is necessary and have your tetanus shots up to date.

The money raised by the volunteers contributes to the necessary and recommended vaccinations for the placement cities. Malaria tablets are recommended for both countries. You are required to take any medication that is advised by your GP and/ or the Tropical Medical Bureau (or equivalent) before going overseas.

Although Georgetown and the coastal areas are malaria-free, precautions are very important in the interior. Efforts to reduce the incidence of malaria have been successful, so that the numbers of reported cases have been drastically reduced over the years, however there is still a risk.

We suggest that you check with your doctor regarding current recommendations and guidelines for traveling to your destination. No vaccinations are required to enter either Costa Rica or Mexico. If you are going to get vaccinations we recommend getting the process started at least 6 weeks prior to travel. Malaria is currently not present in the coastal areas we are visiting.

Malaria does occur in Central America and is something to be more concerned about if you are venturing into more rural areas. There are Malaria tablets that can be taken before and during your visit. Other precautions include keeping covered at Dusk and Dawn and whenever venturing deep into the Jungle. You should consult with your health advisor or Doctor before your visit to make the adequate arrangements. For further information visit www.cdc.gov, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

Malaria is caused by four different species of a parasite called Plasmodium. These are Plasmodium falciparum, Plasmodium vivax, Plasmodium ovale and Plasmodium malariae. Plasmodium falciparum is frequently fatal if untreated. Malaria due to the other three species may cause high fever up to 106, but they are seldom fatal. However, some patients suffer relapse. The parasite is injected during the bite of the female anopheline mosquito.

You will need to consult your doctor or local health department in order to determine if you want to take malaria medications. There are cases of malaria in the region. Locals do not take medications. Some tourists decide to take medications and others do not.