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14 Jul 2008
Those travelling abroad this summer should seek advice from their doctor or physician before setting off, as the disease is not confined to tropical countries.
Jacqui Jedrzejewski from NHS Direct said: "Whilst it is most common in tropical countries it is also possible to catch malaria in other parts of the world and so you should always seek advice before you travel."
Pregnant women in particular need to speak to their doctor about appropriate anti-malarial medication and are advised to check any mosquito repellent used on the skin is specifically recommended for expectant mothers.
Malaria is transmitted by an infected mosquito and it can only take one bite to contract the disease.
Ms Jedrzejewski warned: "Malaria is a serious illness, particularly for pregnant women, and can result in severe illness or death. Both the mother and unborn baby can be affected."
The type of medication prescribed will depend on the country you intend to visit, as malaria germs can vary between different parts of the world, she explained.
According to the British Medical Journal, the number of reported cases of malaria in the UK alone has steadily increased over the past 20 years.
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