Holidaymakers are advised to "always" seek malaria advice prior to travelling abroad, as the disease is not confined to tropical countries.
This month, the British Medical Journal stated that reported cases of malaria in the UK had steadily increased over the past 20 years.
Cases of Plasmodium falciparum – the deadliest malaria parasite – increased from 5,120 between 1987 and 1991 to 6,753 between 2000 and 2006, figures show.
Jacqui Jedrzejewski from NHS Direct warned that pregnant women should take extra precautions to ensure their mosquito repellent is suitable and wear light clothing to avoid being bitten.
"If you are travelling to countries where there is a risk of contracting malaria, it is essential that you visit your GP or health centre beforehand to discuss the most appropriate anti-malarial medication for you," she advised.
"Malaria is a serious illness, particularly for pregnant women, and can result in severe illness or death. Both the mother and unborn baby can be affected."
Those with an existing medical condition must make sure they take a written note of their condition and the medication they are taking for it.
