Medical Disclaimer
The information provided in this post is for educational and informational purposes only.
It’s not intended as medical advice.
Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical concerns or questions.
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, the content here should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
The risk of malaria and other health issues can vary based on individual circumstances, so it is essential to seek personalised advice from a healthcare provider.
The aim of this article is not to downplay the seriousness of malaria but to provide a balanced perspective on the risk. By taking appropriate precautions and planning ahead, you can safely enjoy your visit.
Malaria is a potentially life-threatening disease transmitted to humans through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. One of the crucial considerations when planning a trip to KNP is understanding the risk Malaria poses and adopting preventative strategies.
Malaria in South Africa
- KNP is situated in a high-risk zone for malaria transmission in South Africa, especially during the wet summer months from September to May.
- Please see this map from the NICD & Department of Health in South Africa. This is the latest map available detailing malaria risk in the KNP area.
Risk is divided into two groups: Low and Moderate risk areas.
Low Risk Areas:
- Some areas outside KNP, (such as Hazyview), do not require antimalarial drugs at any time of the year.
- Preventative measures against mosquito bites are recommended between September and May.
Moderate Risk Areas:
- The entire KNP falls under this category.
- It is recommended to take antimalarial drugs and use preventative measures against mosquito bites between September and May.
- Between June and August no preventative measures are specified.
Risk Summary
It’s important to note that although this is a high-risk area, South Africa’s malaria eradication program has significantly reduced the risk compared to neighbouring countries and other major tourist destinations.
For instance, according to WHO reports, the estimated malaria cases and deaths in neighbouring countries are as follows for 2022:
| Country/ 2022 Statistics | Estimated Cases | Estimated Deaths |
|---|---|---|
| South Africa | 2000 | 29 |
| Botswana | 542 | 6 |
| Mozambique | 10,400,000 | 21,600 |
| Namibia | 16,900 | 28 |
| Zimbabwe | 366,000 | 936 |
To put this in perspective, countries with larger tourism sectors than South Africa have a far more widespread malaria issue.
For example: In 2022, approximately 3.4 million malaria cases were reported in India, with an estimated 5,500 deaths.
Who is at Risk?
Everyone in Malaria Endemic areas is at risk of malaria, but certain groups are more vulnerable:
- Children under five
- Pregnant women
- People with underlying health risks
Signs and Symptoms
Malaria symptoms can appear as early as 7 days or up to 21 days after exposure. Common symptoms include:
- Fever and flu-like symptoms.
- Headache, chills, and sweating.
- Fatigue, abdominal discomfort, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting.
- In severe cases, it can lead to complications like severe anaemia, respiratory distress, and cerebral malaria.
- In children, symptoms might include lethargy, poor feeding, vomiting, and cough.
What to Do if You Have Symptoms
If you develop fever or flu-like symptoms during or after your visit to KNP, seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial. Malaria can be confirmed through blood tests and treated with appropriate antimalarial drugs.
If you need urgent advice, contact the 24 hour Malaria hotline at +27 (0)13 735 5638.
For more detailed information, you can visit the NICD website and access the South African guidelines for malaria prevention and treatment.
Prevention Tips
Preventing malaria requires a combination of mosquito avoidance and medication. The strategies you choose may vary based on the timing of your visit and your healthcare provider’s advice.
Mosquito Avoidance
- Stay Indoors: Remain indoors between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
- Protective Clothing: Wear long-sleeved clothing to cover exposed skin.
- Insect Repellents: Apply insect repellents containing DEET on exposed skin.
- Mosquito Control: Use mosquito coils and insecticide sprays in living areas.
- Screening: Ensure windows and doors are fitted with screens to keep mosquitoes out.
- Bonus Point in Moderate Risk Areas During The Wet Season – Bed Nets: Ideally sleep under insecticide-treated bed nets.
Antimalarial Drugs
Anti-malarial drugs work by killing or inhibiting the growth of malaria parasites in the bloodstream, preventing or treating infection caused by mosquito bites.
Consult with a medical professional about:
- Necessity: Whether you should use an antimalarial drug.
- Options and Side Effects: Available antimalarial drugs and any potential side effects.
Insurance Considerations
- For international visitors, ensure that your insurance covers healthcare costs related to malaria if you choose not to take antimalarial medication.
- Different insurance companies have varying policies on travel to malaria zones, regardless of the actual risk level.