Malaria Prevention
Malaria is a potentially fatal parasitic illness transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes. There is no vaccine approved for travellers; prevention relies on prescription antimalarial medication combined with strict mosquito-bite prevention.
What it protects against
Plasmodium falciparum, P. vivax, P. ovale, P. malariae, P. knowlesi — parasites that cause malaria.
Who should get it
- •Travellers to malaria-endemic areas (sub-Saharan Africa, parts of Asia, South/Central America)
- •Pregnant travellers (with careful drug selection)
- •Visitors to rural/jungle regions of malaria-risk countries
Not recommended for
- •Each drug has specific contraindications — our physician reviews carefully
- •Doxycycline: children under 8, pregnancy
- •Mefloquine: history of depression, anxiety, seizures
Destinations where Malaria is recommended
Side effects & safety
- Malarone (atovaquone-proguanil): well-tolerated; occasional nausea or vivid dreams
- Doxycycline: sun sensitivity, upset stomach, not for pregnancy
- Mefloquine: rarely neuropsychiatric effects — not used in people with depression or anxiety
Key facts
- 1There is no "malaria vaccine" for travellers — prevention is pill-based
- 2Mosquito-bite prevention (DEET, long sleeves, bed nets) is equally important
- 3Drug choice depends on destination, duration, health, and cost
Need the malaria prevention for your trip?
Book a virtual consultation with a licensed Canadian physician. We'll review your itinerary, issue the prescription, and administer the vaccine at our Toronto pharmacy.
Book your consultationFrequently asked: Malaria Prevention
Which malaria medication is best?
For most Canadian travellers, atovaquone-proguanil (Malarone) is the first-line choice — well-tolerated, daily dosing, only 7 days post-trip required. Doxycycline is a cheaper alternative. Mefloquine is reserved for longer trips and is avoided in travellers with a mental-health history.
Do I need malaria medication for all of Africa?
Almost all of sub-Saharan Africa requires malaria prophylaxis. North African countries (Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt) are largely malaria-free.
Can I just use mosquito repellent instead?
No — mosquito-bite prevention alone is not sufficient in high-transmission areas. Medication plus prevention is the standard of care.
Related reading
Malarone vs Doxycycline vs Mefloquine: Choosing the Right Malaria Pill for Your Trip
Three medications dominate malaria prevention for travelers: Malarone, doxycycline, and mefloquine. Each has distinct advantages, side effects, and costs. Here's how to choose the right one for your trip.
Malaria PreventionMalaria and Canadian Travelers: Who's Really at Risk and How to Protect Yourself
Malaria remains one of the most serious health threats for Canadian travelers, particularly those visiting sub-Saharan Africa. Understanding your real level of risk — and who's most vulnerable — is the first step toward staying safe.
Explore other travel vaccines
This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace an individual medical consultation. Recommendations vary based on your health history, destination, and planned activities. A consultation with our licensed physician is required before any prescription or vaccine is issued.