Great Exuma Island - Malaria

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Cat Tales
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Great Exuma Island - Malaria

Post by Cat Tales »

As stated in the Dec. 07 issue of Latitudes & Attitudes:

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) reports that there has been yet another outbreak of malaria on Great Exuma Island in the Bahamas. This includes the settlement of Georgetown. The two cases of malaria caused by the strain P. falciparum have been confirmed this summer. Malaria is a nasty & potentially life threatening illness that is transmitted by mosquitoes. This particular strain of malaria causes flu-like symptoms such as headache, nausea and vomiting, fever and chills, muscle aches, and can occur within three months after you have been infected.

As of Oct. 11, 2007, the CDC recommends that anyone transiting this area take a medicine called Chloroquine, brand name Aralen. This is a prescription medication that is taken once a week for one week PRIOR to entering a malaria prone area, once a week while you are in the malaria prone area and once a week for four weeks AFTER leaving the area. Common side effects of this medication can include nausea & vomiting, headache, dizziness, blurred vision, and itching. Chloroquine may worsen the symptoms of psoriasis. It's best to take this medication with food...
Chris & Kelly Haretos
Formally of s/v Cat Tales, 36081
Boynton Beach, FL
Kokomo
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Post by Kokomo »

It is interesting that the malaria message has been on the CDC site (http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/contentMalariaBahamas07.aspx) since August 23rd and the outbreak was in July. That's a long time with no additional cases reported.
Roger and Bonnie
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Post by Lady of the Lake »

Update:

As of December 13, 2007, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has removed recommendations for malaria preventive medication (prophylaxis) for travel to Great Exuma, Bahamas. No new malaria cases in travelers have been reported from the area. Travelers are advised to follow standard CDC health recommendations for travel to the Bahamas, including protection against mosquito and other insect bites, but no longer need to take an antimalarial drug when visiting these islands.
Sam and Gina Densler
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PDQ36 Hull #15
Punta Gorda, FL
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