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There have been reports of malaria among recent travelers to Goa,
particularly from Scandinavian countries. [See
http://www.eurosurveillance.org/ew/2007/070111.asp#1] In response to a query by Dr. B.S. Kakkilaya, webmaster of malariasite.com,
Dr. A.V. Salelkar, Director of Health
Services, Govt. of Goa has advised tourists to Goa to take prophylaxis against
malaria.
Here are the excerpts from his reply:
..Malaria is prevalent in Goa for the last two decades... However the current
situation is not so gloomy as it was 4-5 years back.
Panaji, Candolim-Calangute belt, Porvorim and its surroundings, Taleigao,
Margao harbour almost 80% of the total cases of malaria in this state... These
are the areas which are in the coastal belt or near to it and movement of the
tourists is to a great extent in these areas. Therefore though the situation is
not in epidemic proportion it would be advisable for the tourists from abroad to
take the prophylactic measures if they visit these areas...
As regards the sensitivity...the second line treatment with
Sulfadoxine+Pyrimethamine and artesunate are administered to treat falciparum
cases in these areas.
See Prophylaxis |
