A survey by Lloyds Pharmacy has found that one fifth of UK holidaymakers who visit regions where Malaria is high risk do not take anti-malaria tablets.

The survey also shows 11% of Brits are unaware they have entered high risk malaria prone regions, which highlights the need to research holiday destinations – and to seek medical advice if unsure.

The World Health Organisation (The WHO) states: “Malaria is caused by a parasite called Plasmodium, which is transmitted via the bites of infected mosquitoes. In the human body, the parasites multiply in the liver, and then infect red blood cells.

Head of Medicines at Lloyds Paharmacy, Chris Frost said, “As a result we have one of the worst track records among industrialised countries for bringing this disease home from our trips abroad.” He continued to say that we are far too complacent about the risks malaria poses.