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Malaria

As of late September 2017 we have noticed an increase in the amount of Malaria diagnoses in Kruger National Park. We therefore advise all travellers to cover themselves by taking chemoprophylaxis whilst visiting the Park. Your family physician will be able to advise you on the most suitable medication.

Malaria is mosquito borne disease transmitted exclusively through the bite of the female Anopheles mosquito. The risk of contracting malaria is often a concern when travelling to African game reserves. However, only two of the South African National Parks are in a malaria risk area. These are the Kruger National Park and Mapungubwe National Park. The risk of malaria in both these venues is usually low and seasonal.

The use of malaria prophylaxis medications can reduce your risk of contracting malaria. The risk is also reduced if mosquito bites are prevented. This can be done by:

  • Wearing shoes, long-sleeved shirts, and long pants when you go outside.
  • Staying inside at between dawn and dusk – This means any time after sunset and before sunrise.
  • Using insect repellent that contains DEET.
  • Ensuring that insect screens over the windows and doors are closed or sleep under a mosquito net. All tourist accommodation in Kruger National Park and Mapungubwe National Park have insect screens on windows and doors.

More advice on the use of malaria prophylaxis

Malaria Hotline

+27 (0)13 735 5638

Useful Websites