Malaria Risk by Country – Travel Advisory for UK Residents
Travelling abroad to a tropical or subtropical destination? Understanding malaria risk by country is vital for safe travel. Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by Plasmodium parasites transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes. This guide provides a country-by-country overview of malaria risk zones and outlines where UK travellers should take extra precautions, including taking anti-malarial tablets and seeking travel health advice.
Malaria in Africa
Sub-Saharan Africa remains the highest risk region globally, accounting for over 90% of malaria cases and deaths worldwide.
High-Risk Countries:
- Nigeria
- Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
- Uganda
- Mozambique
- Ghana
- Kenya
- Tanzania
- Ethiopia
- Sierra Leone
UK Travel Advice: All travellers to these regions should take anti-malarial tablets (e.g., Malarone, doxycycline, or mefloquine), use mosquito nets, and apply repellents containing DEET. Visit NaTHNaC TravelHealthPro for specific destination guidance.
Malaria in Asia
Malaria risk in Asia varies significantly by country and region within the country. Some urban areas are low risk, while rural or forested areas can be high risk.
High to Moderate Risk:
- India (especially northeast and central states)
- Pakistan (especially Balochistan, Sindh)
- Myanmar (Burma)
- Bangladesh
- Cambodia
- Laos
- Vietnam (rural & border areas)
- Indonesia (including Papua and parts of Kalimantan)
Lower Risk:
- Thailand (border areas with Cambodia, Myanmar, Laos)
- Philippines (selected rural areas)
UK Travel Advice: Risk varies by province. Anti-malarial medication is recommended for travellers to rural or border areas. Visit the NHS Fit for Travel website for up-to-date regional advice.
Malaria in South America
Risk in South America is more concentrated in forested and Amazonian regions.
Risk Areas:
- Brazil (Amazon region)
- Peru (jungle areas)
- Colombia (departments like Chocó, Amazonas)
- Venezuela
- Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana
UK Travel Advice: Urban areas like Rio de Janeiro and Lima are malaria-free, but jungle areas may require prophylactic treatment. Use insect repellent, wear long sleeves, and sleep under treated nets.
Other Regions with Malaria Risk
Central America:
- Honduras, Guatemala, Nicaragua, and Panama (rural and coastal zones)
Middle East:
- Yemen and parts of Saudi Arabia
Oceania:
- Papua New Guinea
- Solomon Islands
- Vanuatu
Note: Malaria risk in these areas is often linked to travel in rural or forested locations. Seek travel health advice before departure.
WHO and NHS Recommendations
Both the World Health Organization (WHO) and the UK’s NHS recommend the following for malaria-endemic regions:
- Use chemoprophylaxis when indicated (e.g., Malarone, doxycycline)
- Apply insect repellent with 50% DEET
- Sleep under insecticide-treated bed nets (ITNs)
- Wear long-sleeved clothing in the evening
- Consider vaccination (where applicable) in line with local guidance
Key Sources:
FAQs
Do I need malaria tablets for every country listed?
No. It depends on the region and your specific itinerary. Urban areas may have no risk, while rural areas nearby may have high risk.
How do I know what medication I need?
Speak to a travel health professional at least 4-8 weeks before travel. They will assess your destination, medical history, and travel plans to recommend the right anti-malarial tablet.
Can I get malaria if I’m just visiting for a short time?
Yes. It only takes one mosquito bite to transmit malaria, even during a short trip.
What if I’m pregnant or have a medical condition?
Some anti-malarials are not safe for pregnant women or people with certain conditions. Always seek medical advice from a qualified clinician or travel health specialist.
Looking for Malaria Prevention in the UK?
MedCare Health Clinic offers travel health consultations, malaria prescriptions, and tailored advice for your destination. Book your appointment now or visit medcare-healthclinic.com to