Malaria

This infection, caused by the Plasmodium parasite, is spread by the night-time - dusk to dawn - biting female Anopheles mosquito. This preventable disease affects more than 245 million people worldwide.

Of the four species of human malaria parasites, Plasmodium falciparum is the most dangerous. The other types of malaria are caused by Plasmodium vivax, Plasmodium ovale and Plasmodium malariae.

Travellers going to malaria endemic areas are at high risk. There are a number of options that travellers can take to prevent malaria, including anti-malarial medication, using anti-mosquito sprays, and permethrin treated bed nets.

For malaria risk areas worldwide and regions affected by anti-malarial drug resistance, see IAMAT's World Malaria Risk Chart. To learn more about the Plasmodium parasite lifecycle in vector mosquitos, mechanical and pharmaceutical protection guidelines, details on medication dosages, side-effects and contra-indications, as well as alternative measures for pregnant travellers, children, and people with special needs and drug sensitivities, see IAMAT's How to Protect Yourself Against Malaria.

Risk of Malaria is present in the following countries:



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