Malaria in French Guiana: everything you need to know before you go

Malaria is a parasitic disease transmitted by the bite of female Anopheles mosquitoes. In mainland France and most of the French Caribbean islands (Martinique, Guadeloupe), malaria has been eradicated. French Guiana is the exception: it is the only French territory in the Americas where malaria is still present, particularly in forested areas near Suriname and Brazil.

Each year, several hundred cases are recorded in French Guiana, mainly in inland municipalities and along the Maroni river. The good news: with proper preparation, the risk is very manageable.

What is malaria?

Malaria is caused by parasites of the genus Plasmodium, transmitted through the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito. In French Guiana, the most common species is Plasmodium vivax, less deadly than Plasmodium falciparum but capable of causing relapses several months after infection.

Malaria is not contagious from person to person. It is only transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito.

Risk zones in French Guiana

If your stay is limited to Cayenne or Kourou (space centre), the risk is very low. However, any stay in the forest or inland municipalities requires prophylaxis.

Symptoms to recognise

Malaria symptoms generally appear between 7 and 30 days after the infective bite. They can resemble severe flu:

• High fever (often > 38.5°C), sometimes cyclical (every 2-3 days)
• Intense chills and heavy sweating
• Severe headaches
• Muscle and joint pain
• Nausea, vomiting
• Extreme fatigue

Important: any fever occurring within 2 months of returning from French Guiana should be reported to a doctor and tested with a rapid diagnostic test (RDT).

Anti-malarial prophylaxis: how to protect yourself

Prophylaxis involves taking an anti-malarial drug before, during and after your stay to prevent infection. It does not replace mosquito bite prevention measures.

Consult your doctor or an international vaccination centre at least 4 weeks before departure to choose the treatment best suited to your profile and itinerary.

Protection against Anopheles bites

Anopheles mosquitoes have one key characteristic: they bite mainly at night, between sunset and sunrise. Night-time protection is therefore essential:

• Permethrin-treated mosquito net: essential for sleeping, especially in forest areas
• Skin repellents: DEET 30-50%, icaridin, IR3535 — apply to exposed areas from sunset
• Covering clothing: long sleeves and trousers in the evening
• Air conditioning or fan: mosquitoes avoid air currents
• Coils and diffusers: as a supplement, indoors

If you experience symptoms: what to do?

1. 1See a doctor or go to the emergency room without delay (CHU Cayenne: 05 94 39 50 50)
2. 2Mention your stay in the Guianese forest
3. 3A rapid diagnostic test (RDT) or thick blood smear will be performed
4. 4If positive, treatment is effective and quick if taken in time

Never self-medicate with anti-malarials without a confirmed medical diagnosis.

A reassuring word for travellers

The vast majority of tourists visiting French Guiana — particularly Cayenne, Kourou and the coastal area — are not exposed to a significant malaria risk. The people of French Guiana have lived with this reality for generations and know the protective measures well. With good preparation, appropriate prophylaxis and night-time mosquito protection, your stay in French Guiana will be an unforgettable experience in the heart of the French Amazon.