When I was in a Malaria endemic area recently, I was presented with two options. 1. Prophylactic antimalarials (doxycycline) OR 2. Taking sufficient antimalarials (doxycycline) with me to treat a malaria infection, should I get one. (Doxy also increases susceptibility to sunburn which has to be taken into account when working outside in the tropics!) If this mother is confident that she can prevent mosquito bites (by wearing appropriate clothing AND using an effective insect repellent - at least 20% DEET applies 2 hourly AND using bed nets properly), then she may be able avoid taking anything at all. There is an argument that the use of prophylactic antimalarials by tourists contributes to resistance amongst the parasite and increases the cost and reduces accessibility of antimalarials to the local population.
cheers
Nina Berry
Australia
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