The NICD has issued an alert for travellers to be aware of the risk of malaria both in endemic provinces (NE Limpopo, eastern Mpumalanga and northern KwaZulu-Natal) and in the wider region, particularly in the wake of the devastation wreaked by Cyclone Idai. The agency warns that as a result of conditions produced by the cyclone, ‘there may be an increase of malaria cases within the next two months locally and within the southeast African region’. (In other news relating to Cyclone Idai, cholera cases in Mozambique’s Beira and Dondo towns and Buzi and Nhamatanda districts (Sofala) rose to ‘nearly 3,600 with six deaths up to April 8’) Read more
Advice for travellers
Malaria is endemic in many areas of southern Africa. Travelvax recommends that travellers visiting this region discuss their itinerary and preventative medication at their nearest Travelvax clinic, or with their healthcare provider. For advice, call Travelvax on 1300 360 164. More on malaria.
Before you travel, call Travelvax Australia’s telephone advisory service on 1300 360 164 (toll-free from landlines) for country-specific advice and information. You can also make an appointment at your nearest Travelvax clinic to obtain vaccinations, medication to prevent or treat illness, and accessories for your journey.