Malaria... Is it worth the risk? Published Oct. 10, 2006 By Capt. Vince King 455th Air Expeditionary Wing public affairs BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan -- According to the Centers for Controlled Diseases and Prevention web site, about 350 million cases of malaria occur worldwide, and over a million people die from the disease, most of whom are young children. A mosquito-borne disease caused by a parasite, Malaria is one of the leading causes of death and diseases in the world. Common in Afghanistan, the flight medicine doctor assigned to the 455th Air Expeditionary Wing encourages members to heed advice from medical experts and senior leadership to take the necessary precautions. "Malaria is a serious disease and the symptoms of the disease are non-specific," said Capt Jerrilyn Jones, 455th Air Expeditionary Wing flight medicine doctor. The individual could have "flu-like symptoms, frequent headaches, vomiting or a fever." According to the CDC, symptoms could occur as earlier as 10 days to a year after being infected. "The only way for individuals to know if they have been infected is by having a medical examination," said Capt Jones. To date, Capt. Jones said there have been several cases of military members who have contracted the disease. "In those cases, individuals were not taking the necessary precautions," she said. There are several ways to help with prevention, said the doctor. "The best way is to prevent getting bit by mosquitoes," she said. "If you're out at night make sure you're covered appropriately," she said. "Uniforms should be treated with permethrin, and any exposed skin should be covered in some form of insect repellent with at least 30 percent deet." However, while deployed, members are encouraged to take the necessary prevention medication, whether it's daily or weekly. According to the CDC Web site the drugs are not designed to prevent the initial infection, however it helps to prevent the development of malaria parasites in the blood, which are the forms that cause the disease. "Be vigilant about taking the necessary precautions," she said. "Find a routine to prevent yourself from missing a dosage and not only risking yours, but your wingman's life as well." If members suspect they have contracted the disease they should go to the flight surgeon immediately for an evaluation.