Malaria Information - Namibia

Malaria is an acute, infectious blood borne disease which is caused by malaria parasites hosted by female mosquito (Anopheles mosquito, typically the Plasmodium Falcifarum is found in Namibia). The parasites targets red blood cells and platelets. Malaria parasites can affect the brain, causing cerebral malaria which may result in unconsciousness and death. Precaution is vital to all citizens and tourists.

Malaria Areas

Although seasonal, malaria is considered a major public health risk in Namibia. The rainy season occurs from October to May and malaria can occur in 9 out of the 13 regions. 

• High risk areas: Caprivi, Kavango, Kunene, Ohangwena, Omaheke, Omusati, Oshana, Oshikoto, Otjozondjupa
• Low risk areas: Erongo, Khomas
• No risk areas: Hardap, Karas 

Personal Protection Measures

• Protect yourself against mosquito bites at all times
• Apply repellents to exposed skin
• Wear long sleeved clothes when possible
• Sleep in rooms with window and door screens
• Avoid the outdoors between 8pm and 6am
• Sleep under a MOSSI NET, whether indoors or outdoors!

Use Additional Chemoprophilaxis

• Mefloquine (Weekly dosage - Adults - 250 mg and 5 mg per kg children over 15 kg)
• Doxycyline as alternative (Dosage - Adults - 100 mg per day - NOT suitalble for children under 8 years)

If you experience the following MALARIA SYMPTOMS, please seek medical diagnosis and treatment immediately

• Fever
• Malaise
• Diarrhoea
• Backache
• Rigor (Shivering)
• Headache
• Any Flu-like Symptoms
• Vomiting

First Choice Medicine

Arthemether / Lumefantrine (Not suitable for pregnant or lactating women)