Are tourists at risk for malaria?


Are tourists at risk for malaria? About 2,000 cases of malaria are diagnosed in the United States annually, mostly in returned travelers. Travelers to sub-Saharan Africa have the greatest risk of both getting malaria and dying from their infection. However, all travelers to countries where malaria is present may be at risk for infection.


Where in Africa is malaria the worst?

Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the United Republic of Tanzania, and Niger account for about half of all such fatalities. Nigeria alone had 31.3% of the world's malaria deaths in 2021. Malaria is transmitted through mosquitoes infected with plasmodium, a single-cell parasite.


Which African country has the worst malaria?

Four African countries accounted for just over half of all malaria deaths worldwide: Nigeria (31.3%), the Democratic Republic of the Congo (12.6%), United Republic of Tanzania (4.1%) and Niger (3.9%).


Will I get malaria if I go to Africa?

Travelers to sub-Saharan Africa have the greatest risk of both getting malaria and dying from their infection. However, all travelers to countries where malaria is present may be at risk for infection.


When should I take malaria pills before traveling?

How to take the medicine. The course should be started 1 or 2 days before entering a country with a risk of malaria; taken daily for the entire duration of your stay; and continued for 7 days after leaving the affected area.