October 05, 2001 - Malaria Prevention

Vanuatu is one of the few cruising areas where malaria is a significant problem. It is considered at least a medium risk area and by some authorities a high risk area.

Generally we try to avoid taking medicines and have chosen not to take prophylactics in low risk areas. Vanuatu is an exception however because not only is there a high risk of being infected but the type of malaria prevalent is considered one of the more dangerous types.

There are different prophylactics for different areas. Two medicines are recommended for Vanuatu - one is a once a week tablet, the other a once a day dosage. Whereas the once a week tablet is appealing it has some draw backs for cruisers. The main problem is that the possible side effects are very similar to the symptoms of DCS (the bends), making it unsuitable if you scuba dive. The movement of a boat might also exacerbate side effects such as dizzyness and nausea.

Another problematical side effect of malaria drugs for cruisers is that they increase your sensitivity to the sun so you need to take extra care with sun protection.

Of course not being bitten is still the best prevention so investing in good mosquito screens, insect repellent, and sprays/citronella candles etc. is just as important as medicines, especially as preventative medicine does not provide a 100 percent guarantee against catching the disease. You might also want to consider carrying quinine to take (in addition to the malaria pills) if you do get unlucky and succumb.