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Malawi Travel Health Guide

High risk

Malawi carries a CDC Level 1 travel health notice. Malaria risk exists throughout Malawi. Key travel vaccines: COVID-19, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B. Yellow fever vaccine is not needed for disease protection in Malawi, but is required for entry if you're coming from a country with yellow fever risk, including airport layovers over 12 hours.

Overall risk

High risk

Malaria

Present

Best time to visit

Year-round

Recommended vaccines

Routine Vaccines

Make sure all routine vaccines are current before traveling, including chickenpox, tetanus, flu, MMR, polio, and shingles vaccines.

Recommended

COVID-19

Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines before traveling.

Recommended

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A vaccine is recommended for all travelers to Malawi age 1 and older. Infants 6-11 months should also get vaccinated.

Recommended

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B vaccine is recommended for unvaccinated travelers under 60. Those 60 and older may also consider vaccination.

Recommended

Measles

Measles cases are rising worldwide. All travelers should be fully vaccinated with MMR vaccine at least 2 weeks before travel. Infants 6-11 months need an early dose.

Recommended

Typhoid

Typhoid vaccine is recommended for most travelers to Malawi, especially if visiting rural areas or staying with friends and relatives.

Recommended

Chikungunya

Chikungunya vaccine is generally not recommended. Focus on preventing mosquito bites instead.

Situational

Cholera

Cholera is present in several areas of Malawi. Vaccination may be considered if traveling to affected divisions. Focus on safe food and water practices.

Situational

Monkeypox

Monkeypox vaccine is recommended if you plan certain high-risk activities. Get your first dose at least 6 weeks before travel for best protection.

Situational

Rabies

Rabies is common in dogs in Malawi. Consider pre-exposure vaccination if you'll be around animals or in remote areas where treatment might not be readily available.

Situational

Yellow Fever

Yellow fever vaccine is not needed for disease protection in Malawi, but is required for entry if you're coming from a country with yellow fever risk, including airport layovers over 12 hours.

Situational

Disease risks

Malaria risk

Malaria is present in this destination. Prophylaxis medication is recommended.

Malaria risk exists throughout Malawi. Take prescription antimalarial medication as recommended by your doctor. Start taking it before your trip and continue during and after your trip.

Emergency numbers

Police

997

Medical / Ambulance

998

Fire

999

U.S. Embassy

+265-1-773-166

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Sources: CDC Travelers' Health · WHO International Travel and Health. Last updated 2026-07-31. Health conditions and entry rules change — verify with the CDC, WHO and your destination’s authorities before travel. This page is informational and not a substitute for advice from a travel-medicine provider.