What do I need to know before I travel?
Public Health Scotland logo

Fit for Travel Logo

Information on how to stay safe and healthy abroad. About us.

Malaria in Brazil (Wenceslau Guimaraes, Bahia State)

05 Feb 2018

The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports an outbreak of malaria that began in late January 2018 in the town of Wenceslau Guimarães in Bahia Sate, Brazil. Twenty-one cases were reported between 16 January and 22 January 2018. 

Wenceslau Guimarães is outside the area of Brazil where malaria is usually reported. However, occasional outbreaks do occur in such areas when the infection is introduced by travellers from areas where malaria is more common.

 Advice for travellers

Malaria is usually rare or absent in Bahia State, despite this outbreak. The risk of a traveller being infected is low and antimalarial chemoprophylaxis is not advised at this time. However, rigorous avoidance of mosquito bites at all times is strongly emphasized as the first line of defence against malaria and other mosquito-borne infections.

In the event of developing a fever during or after return from travel, travellers should seek prompt medical attention.

For further information see Malaria.