Malaria Prevention

Please note: We are not medical professionals. It is essential that you consult your doctor or a travel health clinic about malaria prevention before traveling to any malaria-risk area. The information below is intended to supplement, not replace, professional medical advice.

Understanding Malaria Risk in Africa

Every African country falls into one of three categories: no risk, low risk, or high risk for malaria. With proper preparation, you can significantly reduce your chances of infection. Mosquitoes and other biting insects are generally more active during the warmer summer months than in cooler winter periods.

Rule One: Avoid Mosquito Bites

The most effective way to prevent malaria is to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. The female Anopheles mosquito, which transmits malaria, is a stealthy insect that doesn’t buzz to warn you of its presence.

Mosquitoes can bite at any time but are most active at dawn and dusk.
Use insect repellent sprays liberally on both exposed and covered skin, as mosquitoes can bite through thin clothing.
Wear long-sleeved shirts and long trousers during mornings and evenings to minimize skin exposure.

Most lodges provide screened windows and doors, mosquito nets, air conditioning, fans, and plug-in mosquito deterrents. These help reduce bites but should never be relied upon exclusively.

Rule Two: Take Antimalarial Medication if You’re in a Risk Area

No antimalarial drug is 100% effective, as parasites can develop resistance. Therefore, consult your doctor or travel clinic about the best prophylactic medication for your destination and health profile.

Chloroquine, Proguanil, and Maloprim: These are less commonly used due to widespread chloroquine resistance in many parts of Africa north of South Africa.
Mefloquine (Lariam): Very effective but may cause side effects, especially in individuals with a history of psychiatric conditions.
Malarone (Atovaquone-Proguanil): Increasingly popular due to minimal side effects and simple once-daily dosing. Available in a chewable children’s formulation that starts just one day before travel. This is our recommended prophylactic, but always confirm suitability with your doctor.
Doxycycline: An antibiotic alternative that works well for many, but can cause sun sensitivity and may interact with contraceptive pills. Be cautious about sun exposure.

Important: Always take your antimalarial tablets as prescribed—starting before travel, continuing during your stay, and completing the full course after leaving the malaria area.

Rule Three: Recognize Symptoms and Complete Your Medication

If during or after your trip you experience symptoms such as fever, chills, headache, muscle pain, nausea, or sweating, get tested for malaria immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical.

Never stop your prophylactic medication prematurely—even if you feel well after leaving a malaria area.

What Doesn’t Work

Garlic, Vitamin B, chili peppers, and similar remedies are myths and should never be relied upon to prevent malaria.

Summary

Avoid mosquito bites by using repellents and protective clothing.
Use appropriate antimalarial medication as advised by your healthcare provider.
Recognize symptoms early and seek medical attention promptly.
Complete your full course of prophylactics even after returning home.