Malaria in Southern Africa in October: What travellers need to know!

October marks the transition from the dry winter season to the warmer, wetter months in Southern Africa - a critical time for malaria awareness. While malaria risk levels differ across the region, travellers should remain cautious as mosquito activity begins to increase.

Malaria risk areas in Southern Africa:

Namibia

• Low risk in most of the country during October.
• Northern regions, especially the Zambezi Strip (Caprivi), Kavango, and parts of Ohangwena, still carry seasonal risk.

Botswana

• Minimal to no risk in central and southern regions.
• Higher risk in the Okavango Delta, Chobe, and Kasane areas -  particularly after the first rains.

Mozambique

• A year-round high-risk country.
• October marks the start of the peak transmission season, especially along the coastal belt, Zambezia, and northern provinces.

Zambia

• Transmission begins to rise in October.
• High-risk zones include the Zambezi Valley, Luangwa Valley, and northern provinces.

Zimbabwe

• Malaria risk is generally seasonal.
• Higher risk in low-lying areas such as Manicaland, Mashonaland Central, and regions bordering Mozambique.

Malawi

• Malaria is present year-round.
• October signals the start of increasing transmission, especially around Lake Malawi and the Shire River Valley.

South Africa

• Low risk in most of the country.
• Risk confined to northern Limpopo, Mpumalanga (including Kruger National Park), and the far north of KwaZulu-Natal.

eSwatini (Swaziland)

• Generally low risk.
• Some malaria cases occur in the northeastern border areas near Mozambique.

Lesotho

• No malaria risk due to high altitude.

Angola

• High risk throughout the year.
• Transmission is widespread, particularly in northern and central provinces.

Why October (still) matters for malaria awareness:

• With the onset of warmer weather and the first spring rains, mosquito populations rise, and malaria transmission increases.
• October is the build-up month before the heavy rains of November to March, when the majority of malaria cases occur.
• October is a popular safari and holiday month, with dry landscapes and good wildlife sightings drawing visitors to national parks - often located in malaria-risk areas.
• Changing rainfall patterns may expand risk areas, even in regions previously considered low risk.

Malaria prevention tips for travellers:

• Seek medical advice for antimalarial medication (such as atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine) tailored to your destination.
• Apply repellent containing DEET, Icaridin, or IR3535 -  especially from dusk to dawn.
• Long sleeves, long trousers, and socks reduce the risk of mosquito bites in the evenings.
• Choose accommodations with mosquito nets, screens, air-conditioning, or fans.
• Always use an insecticide-treated mosquito net if sleeping in risk areas.
• Stay away from stagnant water, especially at night when mosquitoes are most active.
• Fever, chills, headache, or flu-like symptoms within weeks of travel should be treated as a potential malaria case — seek immediate medical attention.

Final thoughts:

October is a turning point in Southern Africa’s malaria calendar. While some countries like Lesotho are malaria-free, others such as Mozambique, Malawi, and Angola remain high-risk. Even traditionally low-risk destinations like Namibia’s Zambezi Strip, Botswana’s Okavango Delta, or South Africa’s Kruger National Park pose seasonal risks this month.

By taking preventive measures, travellers can enjoy Southern Africa’s spring safaris and adventures safely. Awareness and preparation remain your best protection against malaria.

 

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