[Denver]

I'm not sure what strain of Malaria is prevalent there but IMHO it is definately worth investigating with your own GP (He will have a book!) on what Prophylactic (Tablet) to take prior to your visit so that you have built up a bit of an immunity to a bite.

Larium (Mefloquine - Quinine derivitive) is the most popular and works but still only gives you about 90% protection and may not be what you require for Thailand, it's good for West Africa etc and only needs to be taken once per week, but, there whole websites dedicated to people who have had problems taking it. Me included, vomiting, hallucinations, rashes etc. What decision you have to take is - Do I take the risk! I now use doxycycline (around 75-80% effective) at one per day when I am in a Malarial area and think it is worth my while religeously taking that little green pill every day and actually panic if I forget.

I have sat next to the bed of a 6' 7" ex USMC Captain, strong as an ox, who was fighting for his life after being bitten my one tiny (Female) Mosquito in Guinea, the malaria was eating his blood cells as quick as his body could produce them. It wasn't a pretty sight and it took a long time for him to get over that bout, needless to say, it will be with him now for ever. I also have a very good friend who lost his wife to malaria in West Africa, it is a killer, don't take it lightly.

Yes, you can minimise risk by taking your own sensible precautions especially at night. Lightweight cotton trousers and long sleeve shirts, liberal use of sprays and creams around your wrists, neck, ankles etc and keeping an eye on each other for signs and symptons of malaria.

A shitty disease IMHO, worth doing your homework before travelling to a potential infectious area. Hope this is of use. Safe travels.