Malawi has year-round mosquito activity, with peak risk during the rainy season from November through April. The Lake Malawi shoreline, the Lower Shire Valley, and low-lying areas carry the highest malaria burden. The entire country is malaria-endemic, though highland areas around Zomba and Mulanje have somewhat lower transmission.
Malaria (P. falciparum and P. vivax) is the primary concern, with Malawi having a high national malaria burden. Lymphatic filariasis is present. The warm shores of Lake Malawi create extensive breeding habitat for malaria vectors.
Anopheles gambiae and Anopheles funestus are the dominant malaria vectors. The combination of the lake environment, tropical climate, and limited resources maintains high transmission. Bed nets and prophylaxis are essential.
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Explore mosquito risk briefings for other destinations in Southern Africa.
Disease presence data is sourced from WHO, CDC, ECDC, and OpenDengue. This is not medical advice — consult a travel health professional before your trip.