Malaria precautions

Malaria precautions are essential in all areas of Madagascar, all year round and medication needs to begin before you depart. No anti-malaria prophylaxis is entirely effective or without side effects, so you need to discuss the level of risk with your doctor or travel clinic to decide the best option for you.

While there are a number of malaria prophylaxis available, our current recommendations for Madagascar are:
• Doxycycline (start one week before departure)
• Atovaquone/proguanil, brand name Malarone (start two days before departure)

ReefDoctor asks that volunteers DO NOT take Lariam/Mefloquine as outlined by the UK HSE Medical Advisory Service. Possible side effects of Lariam include dizziness, blurred vision and a disturbed sense of balance, which could cause problems for divers. If you are taking Lariam, you will not be allowed to participate in ReefDoctor’s diving activities.

Remember, you should bring enough malaria medicine to cover your stay in Madagascar - not just your time with us.

Bite prevention

ReefDoctor advises all its personnel to follow bite prevention measures. This does not mean that taking malaria prophylaxis is not necessary, but that you should still avoid being bitten - there are other diseases associated with mosquito bites.

Malaria is transmitted to humans via the bite of an infected female Anopheles mosquito. Anopheles mosquitoes generally bite between sunset and sunrise and are attracted to humans by several factors including heat, odour and carbon dioxide.

Avoid mosquito bites by wearing clothes with long sleeves and long trousers; use insect repellents on exposed skin, we suggest 20% DEET; and sleep under a mosquito net, ReefDoctor has mosquito nets in all of its accommodation but remember to bring your own if you plan to travel in Madagascar after your stay with us.

Further information and fact sheets on malaria and malaria prophylaxis can be found at the National Travel Health Network and Centre.

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