Do I need to take malaria medication if I visit Tanzania?

Yes, you should take antimalarial medicine if you visit Tanzania, as it is a malaria-prone nation. Malaria is a dangerous and sometimes fatal mosquito-borne illness found across Africa, including Tanzania. Malaria has no vaccine, therefore the best approach to avoid it is to take antimalarial medicine.

There are various antimalarial drugs available, and your doctor will advise you on the best one for you depending on your specific circumstances. Some of the most common antimalarial medications include:

Atovaquone-proguanil (Malarone)
Doxycycline
Mefloquine (Lariam)

Antimalarial medication should be used throughout your Tanzania vacation, as well as for four weeks after you return home. You must take your prescription exactly as directed by your doctor.

In addition to taking antimalarial medication, you can also reduce your risk of malaria by taking the following precautions:

Using insect repellent: Use a DEET, picaridin, or IR3535-containing insect repellent. Insect repellent should be applied to all exposed skin, including your face and hands.
Wearing protective clothing: When going outside, especially at night, wear long-sleeved shirts, long trousers, and socks.
Sleeping under a mosquito net: When going outside, especially at night, wear long-sleeved shirts, long trousers, and socks.
Seeing a doctor if you develop symptoms of malaria: Malaria symptoms include fever, headache, chills, muscular pains, and weariness. If you have any of these symptoms, visit a doctor right away.

By taking these precautions, you can help reduce your risk of malaria and enjoy a safe and healthy trip to Tanzania.