Malaria in southern Thailand, including Koh Chang

According to media, the Thai Department of Disease Control has reported 70 cases of Plasmodium knowlesi malaria in Ranong, Songkhla and Trat Provinces between 1 October 2021 and 31 March 2022. Nine of these cases were reported from the island of Koh Chang (Trat Province), a tourist destination.

Plasmodium knowlesi is capable of producing severe illness in those who develop malaria.

Advice for Travellers

While higher than expected cases of malaria continue to be reported, travellers to this area should

• be made aware of the risk of malaria, given the current increase in cases
• practise strict mosquito bite avoidance, the mainstay of malaria prevention
• consider antimalarial chemoprophylaxis (as for high risk areas) if they are in groups at higher risk from malaria

Travellers returning from malarious areas should seek prompt medical advice if they develop a fever during travel or on their return, ensuring they highlight their potential exposure to malaria.

See the TRAVAX Malaria section for further information.