Is there malaria in Okavango Delta?

The Okavango Delta lies in a high-risk malaria zone, which is at its riskiest in the Wet season, and it is advisable to take antimalarial medication. Extra safety measures include applying insect repellent and wearing long sleeves and trousers in the evening to cover up any exposed skin.

Is malaria a problem in Botswana?

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Botswana. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip.

What is the common malaria parasite found in Botswana?

In Botswana, the only known malaria vector is Anopheles arabiensis, a mosquito belonging to the Anopheles gambiae complex known to be a major vector of Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax parasites. The presence of An.

Where is malaria found in Botswana?

Malaria cases predominantly come from six districts in the northern-most part of Botswana: Bobirwa, Boteti, Chobe, Ngamiland, Okavango, and Tutume. However, in recent years, Palapye district in the central eastern part of the country has also reported a significant number of cases.

Is Botswana malaria free?

Malaria risk is present throughout the year (but highest from November to June). Risk is highest in the northern districts of Chobe and Ngamiland. There is low to no risk in all other areas.

When is mosquito season in Botswana?

Vegetation is still thick and temperatures are high, though not as baking as earlier in the year. However, with so much water lying everywhere, March is a favourite month for mosquitoes and bugs. Indeed, March and April are the months with the highest malaria risk, especially in the Chobe River / Zambezi region.

How common is malaria in Botswana?

Malaria cases and deaths have been declining in Botswana, except for outbreaks in 2006, 2014 and 2017, where there was an upsurge of malaria cases from 530 to 2660 with 40 deaths in 2006, from 456 to 1356 cases with 23 deaths in 2014 and from 716 to 1900 cases with 17 deaths in 2017 (Fig.

Is Botswana safe for American tourists?

Botswana is one of the most stable countries in Africa and on the top 10 safest countries to visit in the world. Tourism is well developed in Botswana, as a contrast to its neighbouring countries, and is somewhat distanced from crime across Africa.

What is the biological cause of malaria?

Malaria is caused by the Plasmodium parasite. The parasite can be spread to humans through the bites of infected mosquitoes. There are many different types of plasmodium parasite, but only 5 types cause malaria in humans.

What is the best month to go to Botswana?

The best time to visit Botswana is during the dry season, which falls between May and October. Temperatures range between 75°F and 95°F, so you’ll enjoy warm, sunny days — just remember the nights can get much cooler, so pack accordingly.

What is the best time to go to Botswana?

The best time to visit Botswana is during the dry season between May and October, when you can expect warm, sunny days (22°C-35°C) and chilly nights. This is also when the water levels in the Okavango Delta are at their highest, creating the waterways and channels Botswana is famed for.

Where are the areas at risk of malaria in Botswana?

Areas of Botswana with risk of malaria: Present in the following subdistricts: Botete, Chobe (including Chobe National Park), Ngami, Okavango, and Tuteme. Also present in the following districts: Bobirwa, Northeast (including Francistown), Ghanzi, Mahalapaye, and Serowe Palapye.

What to do if you have malaria in Okavango Delta?

Where does the Okavango River begin and end?

The Okavango River originates from the Angola highlands and ends in the Okavango Delta, or during wet periods in the large Makgaladgadi saltpans in the Kalahari [ 39 ]. Flooding in the Okavango Delta system varies seasonally, from year to year and from decade to decade [ 39 ].

Which is the safest way to go to Okavango Delta?

Chartered flights from lodge to lodge are the safest, quickest and most efficient way of doing a safari. Guided mobile safaris are also a very safe option, as you will be looked after by the tour company and your guide. Botswana is a popular self-drive destination but careful trip planning is essential as the Okavango Delta is a remote destination.