Malaria in southern Thailand

On 24 May 2022, Thai media reported that the Department of Disease Control in the country had identified 70 cases of Plasmodium knowlesi malaria in Ranong, Songkhla and Trat Provinces between 1 October 2021 and 31 March 2022, with nine of these cases being reported from the island of Koh Chang, in the Trat Province, which is a tourist destination.

Plasmodium knowlesi is capable of producing severe illness in those who develop malaria.

Advice for travellers

While higher than expected cases of malaria continue to be reported, travellers to this area should:

• be aware of the risk of malaria, given the current increase in cases
• practise strict mosquito bite avoidance, the mainstay of malaria prevention
• consider antimalarial chemoprophylaxis if they are in groups at higher risk from malaria

Travellers returning from malaria endemic areas should seek prompt medical advice if they develop a fever during travel or on their return, ensuring they highlight potential exposure to malaria. 

Further information on malaria can be obtained from the TRAVAX (for health professionals) and fitfortravel (for the general public) websites.

Sources: TRAVAX, 30 May 2022 and fitfortravel, 30 May 2022