Malaria in Malaysia

Malaysia is a country that is split into two halves by the South China sea and there are a few areas where malaria is still prominent. It has a variety of sights to see and has both beaches and rain-forested areas for people to explore. Naturally, the moist environment of the rainforest facilitates the growth of mosquitoes and consequently malaria is still an issue.

You will need to take malaria tablets if you are visiting the rural parts of Borneo such as Sabah and Sarawak. You will also need to take prophylaxis if you are in peninsular Malaysia and in the forested areas of the country. The hills and rural parts of peninsular Malaysia also pose a risk. You will not need to take malaria tablets if you are visiting the urban coastal areas but if you plan on exploring the country, you will need to discuss this with your doctor so they can prescribed you the correct malaria tablets.

Chloroquine will not work in this part of the world as the parasites have developed resistance to the anti malarial and you will not be protected. However, Lariam, Malarone and Doxycycline will be effective. No malaria tablet is 1009% effective in preventing malaria but by having the anti-malarial in your system, you greatly reduce the chance of the parasite causing malaria if an infected mosquito bites you.

It is also essential that you take insect protection measures. You will need to sleep in a mosquito net if you are not sleeping in an air-conditioned room. Keep windows and doors closed as much as possible and keep your skin covered in loose long sleeved clothing during dusk.

---

« Malaria in South Africa Malaria in China »