How Is Malaria Treated and Prevented?
To test for malaria, a doctor checks a blood sample for malaria parasites. If they are found, prompt treatment is critical. There are several drugs that can treat malaria effectively in its early stage. Even better, travelers can take these drugs before visiting risky areas to help prevent the disease. Chloroquine is still used in parts of the world where the parasites have not yet developed resistance to this drug. In other parts of the world, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) now recommends that travelers take a drug called mefloquine.
