Malaria Risk in Yunnan

China General Health Risks:
Malaria

Malaria is transmitted by the night-time – dusk to dawn – biting female Anopheles mosquito.

Risk is present in the country; areas of risk are specified:

China: Northern China is malaria risk free.

Central China: Low risk exists from May to December in rural areas of the following provinces (main cities in brackets are risk free): Anhui (Hefei), Henan (Zhengzhou), and Hubei (Wuhan). P. vivax malaria is predominant in these areas. Travellers to rural areas of these provinces should take anti-mosquito bite measures from dusk to dawn.

Main vectors: A. minimus, A. sinensi 

Southwestern China, including the southeastern tip of Tibet: Risk is present throughout the year in the southwestern part of Yunnan Province bordering Myanmar | Burma: Dehong Dai and Jingpo, Baoshan, Lincang, Pu’er and Xishuangbanna Prefectures.

Risk is also present in the southeastern part of Tibet in the area bordering India (Arunachal Pradesh state) in the county of Mêdog (Motuo) along the lower Yarlung Tsangpo (Zangbo) river and canyon.  P. falciparum malaria is predomi­nant in these areas. Travellers should take atovaquone-proguanil or doxycycline antimalarial medications if visiting these areas.

Hong Kong is risk free.

Macau is risk free.

Malaria risk is present below the altitude of : 1500 meters

High risk months for Malaria are: January to December

Malaria transmission vector(s): A.minimus, A.sinensis

Incidence of Plasmodium falciparum Malaria: 11%
Of the five species of human malaria parasites, Plasmodium falciparum is the most dangerous. The remaining percentage represents malaria infections that may be caused by one or more of the following parasites: Plasmodium vivax, Plasmodium ovale, Plasmodium malariae, and Plasmodium knowlesi.

Areas with drug resistant Malaria: Multidrug resistant P. falciparum malaria is present in Yunnan province and the southeastern tip of Tibet.

Suppressive Medication Guide

All malaria infections are serious illnesses and must be treated as a medical emergency. In offering guidance on the choice of antimalarial drugs, the main concern is to provide protection against Plasmodium falciparum malaria, the most dangerous and often fatal form of the illness.

Regardless of the medication which has been taken, it is of utmost importance for travellers and their physician to consider fever and flu-like symptoms appearing 7 days up to several months after leaving a malarious area as a malaria breakthrough. Early diagnosis is essential for successful treatment.

In addition to the suggested antimalarial medication, use a mosquito bed net and effective repellents to avoid the bite of the nocturnalAnopheles mosquito.

Yunnan Province, like many tropical and subtropical regions, does have some areas where malaria transmission can occur. However, the risk level varies depending on the specific location, time of year, and local conditions. Here are some key points to consider regarding malaria risk and travel safety in Yunnan:

Malaria Risk in Yunnan:

  1. Risk Areas: Malaria risk in Yunnan is primarily concentrated in rural and forested areas, especially in the southern and southeastern parts of the province near the borders with Myanmar, Laos, and Vietnam. Urban areas and popular tourist destinations like Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La generally have a lower risk.
  2. Seasonal Variation: Malaria transmission is more common during the rainy season (typically from May to October), when mosquito populations are higher. Travelers visiting during this period should take extra precautions.
  3. Preventive Measures: It is advisable for travelers to take preventive measures to reduce the risk of malaria:
    • Antimalarial Medications: Consult a healthcare provider before travel to determine if antimalarial medications are recommended based on your itinerary and health status.
    • Mosquito Avoidance: Use insect repellents containing DEET, wear long-sleeved clothing and pants, and sleep under mosquito nets, especially in high-risk areas and during peak mosquito biting times (dusk and dawn).
    • Chemoprophylaxis: If prescribed antimalarial medications, ensure adherence to the regimen as directed.

Travel Safety in Yunnan:

  1. General Safety: Yunnan is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates compared to many other regions. However, standard precautions such as safeguarding valuables and being aware of your surroundings are recommended.
  2. Altitude Concerns: Some areas of Yunnan, particularly in mountainous regions, have high altitudes. Travelers with health conditions like cardiovascular or respiratory issues should consult a healthcare provider before traveling to these areas.
  3. Cultural Sensitivity: Yunnan is home to diverse ethnic groups with unique cultures and traditions. Respect local customs, traditions, and religious practices when visiting ethnic minority villages and heritage sites.

In conclusion, while Yunnan offers rich cultural experiences and stunning landscapes, travelers should be aware of malaria risks in certain areas and take appropriate precautions. Consulting with a healthcare provider and staying informed about current health advisories can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Yunnan Province.

Source from:
https://www.iamat.org/country/china/risk/malaria