High risk year-round across the country. Chemoprophylaxis (atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, mefloquine, or tafenoquine) recommended in addition to strict mosquito-bite protection. Antananarivo and the central highlands carry moderate rather than high risk; emergency standby treatment may be discussed instead of full prophylaxis for these limited itineraries.

High risk: Coastal lowlands, country-wide
Moderate: Antananarivo + central highlands
Species: P. falciparum (predominant)
Season: Year-round

About malaria CDC details

Yellow fever

None

No yellow fever risk in country. Vaccination certificate required at entry for travelers arriving from countries with yellow fever risk (within 6 days of departure or transit through such countries).

About yellow fever CDC details

Chikungunya

Moderate

Periodic chikungunya outbreaks have been reported. Vaccination may be considered during active outbreaks. Daytime mosquito-bite prevention is the main protection.

About chikungunya

General prevention

Food & water

Strict food and water precautions are essential. Use bottled or treated water and avoid raw produce. Healthcare access outside Antananarivo is limited.

Mosquito protection

Aggressive mosquito-bite prevention is essential. Malaria transmission is high in coastal lowlands; the central highland plateau (including Antananarivo) is moderate risk. Chemoprophylaxis recommended for most itineraries.

Sources

Based on CDC Travelers’ Health, CDC Yellow Book, and the Swiss Federal Vaccination Schedule (BAG). Always verify current recommendations before travel.

Visiting more than one country?

Build a combined itinerary and get merged recommendations across all destinations.

Plan an itinerary

This brief is for informational purposes and does not replace personalized medical advice.
Consult a travel medicine specialist 4–8 weeks before departure.