The risk of malaria is present throughout the year in forested areas below 900m within the nine states of Amazonia (Acre, Amape, Amazonas, Maranhao (western part), Mato Grosso (northern part), Para (except Belem City), Rondonia, Roraima and Tocantis (western part). Transmission is highest in jungle, mining, and agricultural areas and in some peripheral urban areas of Cruzeiro do sol, Manaus and Porto Velho. Malaria also occurs in the periphery of large cities such as Boa Vista, Macapa, Maraba, Rio Branco and Santarem.
There is usually only minimal risk in the tourist resort of Iguazu Falls but those exploring outside the resort itself into rural or jungle areas, especially into Paraguay, should consider antimalarial tablets.
There is a risk for those going on cruises up the Amazon, especially as boats enter populated parts of the rain forest where infected mosquitoes may be taken on board. Most cruises up the Amazon river end up/or start at the city of Manaus where there is a risk of malaria.
Risk is minimal in all states outside Amazonia including the populated eastern coast from Fortazela south to Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo.
Malaria precautions are essential. Avoid mosquito bites by covering up with clothing such as long sleeves and long trousers especially after sunset, using insect repellents on exposed skin and, when necessary, sleeping under a mosquito net. Atovaquone/proguanil OR doxycycline OR mefloquine is usually recommended for those visiting risk areas.
If you have been travelling in a malarious area and develop a fever seek medical attention promptly. Remember malaria can develop even up to one year after exposure. If travelling to high risk malarious areas, remote from medical facilities, carrying emergency malaria standby treatment may be considered.
Recommended Vaccines when travelling to Brazil:
Other Vaccines to be considered when travelling to Brazil: