February falls within the height of the malaria season in Southern Africa. Warm temperatures combined with widespread summer rainfall create ideal conditions for mosquito breeding, increasing the risk for travellers visiting safari regions, river valleys, and low-lying border areas. Understanding where malaria occurs and how to prevent infection is essential for safe travel during this time of year.
Malaria Risk Areas in Southern Africa
Malaria transmission in Southern Africa is largely seasonal and closely linked to rainfall patterns. February remains a high-risk month in several well-known travel destinations.
South Africa
Malaria risk is seasonal and mainly confined to the northeastern parts of South Africa. Areas of concern include Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and the Kruger National Park region. Parts of northern KwaZulu-Natal may also experience low to moderate risk during February. The rest of South Africa, particularly central and southern regions, has little to no malaria risk.
Mozambique
Malaria is present year-round across much of Mozambique, with heightened transmission during the rainy season. Travellers to coastal areas, rural regions, and inland provinces should assume malaria risk throughout February.
Namibia and Botswana
In Namibia, malaria risk is largely restricted to the northern regions, particularly the Zambezi (Caprivi) Strip and areas along major rivers. Botswana’s northern regions, including the Okavango Delta and surrounding districts, experience seasonal malaria transmission during the summer months.
Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi and eSwatini
Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi and eSwatini have widespread seasonal malaria transmission, especially in rural areas, river basins, and low-lying regions. February remains a high-risk period, particularly outside major urban centres.
In general, malaria risk is highest in warm, humid environments such as wetlands, floodplains, and areas with standing water.
Why February Matters for Malaria Awareness
February is a critical month for malaria awareness because it coincides with peak mosquito activity across much of Southern Africa.
Heavy summer rainfall creates numerous breeding sites for mosquitoes, while high temperatures allow the malaria parasite to develop rapidly inside the mosquito. As a result, transmission intensity is often highest between January and March.
This timing is particularly important for travellers, as February is a popular month for safaris, regional road trips, and cross-border travel. Many iconic wildlife destinations lie within malaria-risk zones, increasing exposure for visitors who may underestimate seasonal risk.
Although malaria transmission typically starts to decline toward autumn, February still requires heightened awareness and strict adherence to preventive measures.
Malaria Prevention Tips for Travellers
Preventing malaria relies on a combination of medical preparation and practical mosquito avoidance strategies.
Consult a healthcare professional before travel
Travellers should seek medical advice several weeks before departure. A healthcare provider can assess individual risk based on itinerary and recommend appropriate malaria prophylaxis where necessary.
Reduce mosquito bites
Use insect repellent on exposed skin, especially from dusk to dawn when mosquitoes are most active. Wearing long sleeves, long trousers, and light-coloured clothing helps reduce exposure. Sleeping in air-conditioned rooms or under mosquito nets provides additional protection.
Be mindful of surroundings
Avoid standing water near accommodation where possible. Keep windows and doors closed or screened at night, and use mosquito coils or plug-in repellents where available.
Recognise symptoms early
Malaria symptoms often resemble flu and may include fever, chills, headache, muscle pain, and fatigue. Symptoms can appear during travel or weeks after returning home. Immediate medical attention is essential, and travellers should always mention recent travel to malaria-risk areas.
Extra care for vulnerable travellers
Pregnant women, young children, and immunocompromised individuals face a higher risk of severe malaria and should take additional precautions, including specialised medical advice before travel.
Final Thoughts
February remains one of the most important months for malaria awareness in Southern Africa. While the disease is preventable and treatable, it requires informed planning and consistent precautions. By understanding regional risk areas and following proven prevention strategies, travellers can significantly reduce their risk and enjoy their journey with confidence.
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