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.
COVID-19
Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines before traveling.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A vaccine is recommended for all travelers to Malawi age 1 and older. Infants 6-11 months should also get vaccinated.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B vaccine is recommended for unvaccinated travelers under 60. Those 60 and older may also consider vaccination.
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.
Typhoid
Typhoid vaccine is recommended for most travelers to Malawi, especially if visiting rural areas or staying with friends and relatives.
Chikungunya
Chikungunya vaccine is generally not recommended. Focus on preventing mosquito bites instead.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
More country guides
British Indian Ocean Territory carries a CDC Level 1 travel health notice. No malaria risk. Key travel vaccines: COVID-19, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B.
Burundi carries a CDC Level 1 travel health notice. Malaria risk exists throughout Burundi year-round. Key travel vaccines: COVID-19, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B.
Comoros carries a CDC Level 1 travel health notice. Malaria risk exists throughout Comoros. Key travel vaccines: COVID-19, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B.
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Build my Trip KitSources: 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.