Abstract
INTRODUCTION:
Malaria is the main cause of death by infection among travelers and is preventable through a combination of chemoprophylaxis and personal protective measures.
METHODS:
Travelers were interviewed by phone 28-90 days after returning, to assess adherence to pre-travel advice for malaria prevention.
RESULTS:
A total 57 travelers were included. Adherence to chemoprophylaxis was significantly higher among participants prescribed mefloquine (n=18; 75%) than doxycycline (n=14; 45%). Adherence to mosquito repellent and bed net use was 65% and 67%, respectively.
CONCLUSIONS:
Adherence to malaria prophylaxis was lower than expected. Further studies testing innovative approaches to motivate travelers’ compliance are required.
Keywords:
Travel medicine; Malaria; Prophylaxis; Mefloquine; Doxycycline