Fever in a Returning Traveler

If a returning traveler has a fever, think malaria malaria malaria!!!











Step 1: Ask your patient if they have traveled within the last year











* If yes… You should at least CONSIDER malaria











Step 2: If patient says yes, take a travel history











* When did they go* Where did they stay* Where they exposed to anything concerning* Mosquitos* Animals* Weird foods* Sexual partners* Sick people* Where they in developed/tourist areas or “off the trail”











Step 3: Ask about prophylaxis











* Did they see a doctor before leaving?* Did they take any immunizations or medicines prior to departure?* Did they continue prophylaxis as instructed?











Step 4: Go to the CDC website











* Look up the country of concern* Will help establish your differential











Step 5: Test for malaria











* If you are concerned that patient has malaria…* Order thick and thin blood smear











Additional Reading











* CDC Yellow Book (CDC Website)