What are the risks of malaria in India and how can you protect yourself?
Hey, I'm planning to travel to India soon and I'm wondering about the malaria situation over there. Is it really risky everywhere? How can I protect myself and if I happen to catch it, what should I do?
Responses (1)
Maxime Boudrias
April 9, 2023
Best answer
Malaria is present in India, but the risk varies depending on the regions and altitude. Transmission occurs all year round in areas located below 2000 meters in altitude.
The states most affected are Orissa, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and some northeastern states (Tripura, Meghalaya, Mizoram). On the other hand, there's no risk in Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Sikkim. The rest of the country experiences low transmission.
Malaria prevention
It's important for travelers to protect themselves from mosquito bites in India, no matter the region they visit. Special attention should be paid in rural areas where the risk of malaria is higher.
For typical tourist trips, taking antimalarial medications is generally not necessary. Protection against mosquito bites should be enough to ensure a safe and enjoyable stay.
If you have a fever during your stay in India or in the months following your return, see a doctor quickly to prevent complications related to malaria.
