Malaria in Belize

On 15 April 2025, the Government of Belize reported locally acquired cases of malaria in Santa Elena town and Cristo Rey village in Cayo District (in the West, close to the border with Guatemala).

These cases are the first in Belize in over six years (in 2023 the WHO declared Belize malaria free).

Advice for Travellers

Malaria is not usually present in Belize, although is occasionally introduced from other countries. However, travellers to all areas of Belize should:

• be made aware of the risk of malaria, given the current occurrence of cases.
• at all times, practice strict mosquito bite avoidance, the mainstay of prevention of malaria and other mosquito-borne infections.
• where possible, reduce the number of mosquitoes in and around their accommodation.

Travellers to Belize should be advised to seek prompt medical advice if they develop a fever during travel or on their return home, ensuring they highlight their potential exposure to malaria.

See the TRAVAX Malaria section for further information. Monitor the Belize country page and the outbreaks section for updates.