Please consult your healthcare provider before you depart for updated information and treatment appropriate to your health and circumstances.

The first rule of malaria prevention is to avoid being bitten; that way, you will not contract malaria. The Female Anopheles Mosquito (the exclusive carrier and culprit) can bite at any time of day but is usually most active from dusk to dawn.

Overall, control initiatives have been very successful in the malaria transmission areas. Mostly falciparum malaria is seen. The risk remains low in KwaZulu-Natal and is confined to the very far northern parts of KZN. There is no malaria in the Drakensberg, Hluhluwe, and Umfolozi Game Parks and St Lucia areas.

Mozambique has year-round malaria, and the risks in Southern Zambia, Zimbabwe (Victoria Falls) will likewise increase. Therefore, measures to reduce mosquito bites are essential.

The Kruger National Park is one of two South African National Parks situated in malaria-risk areas. The other park is Mapungubwe National Park. It is important to note that the risk of malaria in both parks is usually low. The SA Minister of Health identifies the window for malaria season between September and May.

MALARIA PRECAUTIONS INCLUDE:

  • Consulting with your physician on the use of prophylaxes and vaccinations.
  • Applying DEET-containing insect repellents to exposed areas.
  • Wearing a long-sleeved shirt, long pants and socks, and hat when outside, ensuring to cover all exposed areas.
  • Wear neutral-colored clothing.
  • Keep window gauze and doors closed at all times and ensure that the chalets’ air-conditioners are fully functional.

Please note, with Go Touch Down, only one of our Safari Tours visits the Kruger National Park, and only for a one-day excursion between 9 am and 3 pm.

Any person developing flu-like symptoms 7 to 20 days (or even longer) after being in malaria-risk areas should be tested immediately for malaria until the symptoms clear or an alternative diagnosis is made. It is, therefore, essential to advise medical practitioners that you have been in a malaria-risk area to avoid incorrect diagnosis.

Please consult your healthcare provider before you depart for updated information and treatment appropriate to your health and circumstances.