malaria prophylaxis if going on a cruise (cruises)

Last edited 02/2020

What malaria prevention should be advised for travellers going on cruises? (1)

Cruises are a significant part of the holiday market. Most travellers on cruises are only ashore during daylight hours when the Anopheles vector of malaria is not feeding, and therefore do not require malaria chemoprophylaxis.

Occasionally this is not the case and therefore the cruise itinerary must be reviewed to determine if there will be exposure to malaria. For example, cruises along the East African coast may include a stop for a night or more in the port of Mombasa, Kenya and passengers may be ashore or on deck after dusk. These itineraries will require malaria chemoprophylaxis.

In addition, cruises that have an overnight stay in any other malaria endemic region of the world may require malaria chemoprophylaxis. Risks in specific destinations can be determined by referring to the country table in malaria guidelines. Based on the destination, duration of exposure, and health of the traveller, the choice of malaria chemoprophylaxis can be made.

All travellers on cruises should use insect bite avoidance measures

Reference:

• Public Health England. Guidelines for malaria prevention in travellers from the UK 2019.