People planning to visit countries where malaria is endemic were yesterday warned to take prophylactic drugs by the Health Protection Agency, after 11 deaths last year.

There are around 2,000 cases of malaria in the UK every year, brought back by travellers to Africa and Asia. Of the 11 who died last year, most were not taking malaria tablets or not taking them properly.

Peter Chiodini, of the HPA, advised people to be aware of malaria symptoms, similar to those of flu. "If you become unwell after going to the tropics, passing your travel history to your doctor is crucial," he said.