Originally Posted by
samftla
I do find it a bit strange that you would seek medical advice on a travel forum. Malaria kills more than a million people worldwide each year—90 percent of them in Africa; there are many other risks of infection as well, polio, hepatitis A and B, and others. I would hope you would consult your health care professional as soon as possible for the appropriate medical direction.Sam
I've found that most primary care docs are not very familiar with travel medicine; chances are they'll look up stuff when you ask. I've gotten incorrect/out of date info (Lariam for a mefloquine resistant region, for example). At least here you'll be talking to people with experience.
2. Larium. This is relatively cheap, but can lead to extremely disturbing psychotic side effects (extremely bloody dreams, hallucinations, etc). These side effects are far more common than the CDC claims -- from my experience I'd say something like 25% of people experience them. Those with a history of depression are particularly at risk.
I've seen people with psychological side-effects from Lariam. Not fun, especially since it stays in your system for over a week. Is there any reason to take this over Malarone (other than price and laziness)?
4. Malarone. Very expensive, but probably the best for short trips. Very limited side effects, and you don't have to take it as long before/after as some of the other drugs.
It has daily dosing, but is that really a problem?