What should you know about vaccine against malaria?

Malaria is an infection spread by certain mosquitoes. Vaccination reduces the chance of severe disease in the groups for whom it is recommended; it does not make every mosquito bite harmless and does not replace advice tailored to a destination.

Protection depends on the vaccine used, the person’s age and health, and the malaria risk in the area being visited. A travel clinician can review the itinerary, season, accommodation and previous vaccinations. Learn more about [Malaria](/conditions/malaria/).

Arrange a [Travel Health Consultation](/treatments/occupational-and-travel-medicine/travel-health-consultation/) before departure. Ask whether [Malaria Prophylaxis](/treatments/occupational-and-travel-medicine/malaria-prophylaxis/) is needed, when doses should be given, and which repellents, clothing and bed nets suit the trip.

After travel, seek medical advice promptly for fever, chills or muscle aches, and mention the countries visited. A [Blood Test](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/blood-test/) may be used when malaria is suspected.

Fever during travel or after returning from a malaria area needs prompt medical assessment, even if vaccination and other prevention were used. Severe weakness, confusion, breathing difficulty, repeated vomiting or a seizure needs emergency care.

Do not wait for symptoms to settle or assume they are a routine infection. Tell the clinician about travel dates, mosquito exposure, prevention medicines and vaccination history.

Ask: Is this vaccine appropriate for the traveller’s age and health? Which doses are needed before departure? Is preventive medicine still advised? What symptoms should trigger urgent review after returning?