Buzz
Malaria is widespread in many tropical regions worldwide and can cause serious health complications if contracted during your travels. If you're heading to a tropical destination, here’s what you should keep in mind.
Determine if your destination poses a malaria risk
West Africa has the highest malaria transmission rates, but other regions in Africa, Asia, Oceania, and parts of South America also carry risks. The level of risk depends on your specific destination and the timing of your visit.
Before embarking on a tropical trip, consult a doctor or clinic specializing in travel medicine. They can assess the malaria risk at your destination and may prescribe preventive medication. Even if you’ve previously visited or lived in the area, you could still be at risk. (The CDC refers to such individuals as 'VFR travelers'—visiting friends and relatives—and provides a dedicated page detailing your malaria risk.)
To get an idea of what a health professional might advise, review this CDC table, which outlines malaria risks and recommended medications for various global destinations. The advice will also depend on the duration of your stay and your personal health, as outlined in this risk assessment guide.
Always follow your prescribed medication regimen
You might be prescribed malaria prevention medication ('chemoprophylaxis') to take during your trip. Adhere to the regimen strictly. While it doesn’t completely eliminate the risk, it significantly reduces your chances of contracting the disease. If you do get malaria while on the medication, the symptoms are likely to be less severe.
Inconsistent use of the medication increases the risk of contracting malaria, and symptoms may appear later. To ensure your safety and assist your healthcare providers, take the medication exactly as directed.
In certain situations, you might receive ‘standby emergency’ medication to treat malaria if you contract it and cannot access medical care. Understand how to use it, carry it with you, but do not rely on it as a substitute for your regular preventive medication.
Take steps to prevent mosquito bites
Regardless of whether you’re on medication, avoiding mosquito bites is crucial. (Malaria is caused by a parasite transmitted through mosquito bites.) Use mosquito repellent: the CDC suggests products containing DEET, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or picaridin.
Window screens and other protective measures can also help keep mosquitoes at bay. If you’re unsure about your accommodations or know you’ll be in a malaria-prone area, bring an insecticide-treated bed net to protect yourself while sleeping. (Secure it under the mattress.) Malaria-carrying mosquitoes are most active during nighttime.
General mosquito bite prevention tips also apply: wear long-sleeved clothing to cover exposed skin, stay indoors during peak mosquito activity, and use mosquito netting over baby carriers.
Be vigilant for symptoms
Malaria symptoms can appear even after you’ve returned from your travels. Monitor yourself for at least three months for signs like fever or flu-like symptoms, such as headaches, chills, and muscle fatigue. Inform your healthcare provider about your travel history to a malaria-affected region.
