Malaria Information

Please note the following important information regarding Malaria for travelling in and around the Kruger National Park area.

How to minimize the risk

The highest risk period is between November and April – the end of the summer rainy season. Following the bite of an infected mosquito, an individual may remain asymptomatic for 12 – 35 days, depending on the species of malaria. This is known as the incubation period. The risk of malaria can be reduced by preventing mosquito bites, which happens most often between dusk and dawn:

– Stay indoors during this period
– Cover exposed skin with light clothing
– Spray exposed skin with insect repellant, especially one’s ankles
– Burn anti-mosquito coils
– Keep the mosquito gauzes closed at all times

Note: Most types of mosquito encountered will not carry the malaria parasite but all precautions are strongly advised.

Malaria Medication

The use of malaria prophylaxis medications can reduce your risk of contracting malaria. The three types of prophylactic medications available for strains of malaria occurring in South Africa include:

– Doxycycline
– Atovaquone / Proguanil
– Mefloquine

Always consult a doctor when choosing the appropriate medication.

Signs and Symptoms

– Fever
– Chills
– Sweating
– Headaches
– Body aches
– Tiredness
– Stomach problems – These can include:
– Loss of appetite
– Nausea and vomiting
– Belly pain
– Diarrhoea
– Skin that looks yellow – This is called “jaundice”
– Cough
– Fast heart rate or breathing

Severe Malaria Symptoms

– Confusion
– Hallucinations
– Seizures
– Dark or bloody urine

Skukuza Medical Practice: +27 (0) 13 735 5638