Outbreak of Malaria in Cape Verde (Update 1)
25 Oct 2017
Media quoting government sources report 
the number of cases of malaria in the capital, Praia has reached 360 since the beginning of the current outbreak.
The rate of new cases is also increasing again, after slowing down at the beginning of October, There have been 38 new cases since 20 October 2017, including 11 cases in the past 2 days (23/24 October 2017).
The current outbreak in Praia has led to the largest annual malaria case total in Cape Verde in nearly 30 years.
Updated Advice for Travellers
All cases recorded in Cape Verde are the dangerous falciparum form of malaria. Ongoing incidence indicates antimalarial chemoprophylaxis for some travellers, updated prevention advice is given.
Low to no risk of P.falciparum in all parts of Cape Verde, except the capital city Praia (see additional advice below). Mosquito bite avoidance is sufficient.
Low risk (with additional advice) in the capital city Praia. Mosquito bite avoidance remains the mainstay of prevention. However due to reporting of cases in Praia in 2017 antimalarial chemoprophylaxis may be considered for certain higher risk groups of traveller, including:
- young children
- elderly people
- those without a spleen
- those who are immunosuppressed or immunocompromised
- travellers with significant co-morbidity
- those with extended travel into rural areas
- those visiting friends and relatives.
In all cases, visitors to malarious countries should seek prompt medical advice if they develop fever during travel or on their return.
For further information see Malaria.