Overview
Madagascar is high-risk for malaria across the country, with the exception of the capital Antananarivo, where risk is more limited. Yellow fever is not required arriving from Belgium, unless you've recently been in a risk country.
Recommended vaccines
Malaria by region
Bite protection and preventive tablets are advised in the high-risk areas; in Antananarivo, bite protection is usually enough, with tablets sometimes advised for more vulnerable travellers. If fever develops, get tested for malaria promptly.
Malaria risk is regional, concentrated in the areas detailed below.
The whole country outside the capital.
Antananarivo, the capital, where risk is more limited.
Other health risks
Prepare your trip
Leaving in under 2 weeks? Still book a clinic: a first hepatitis A dose already protects, and yellow fever needs at least 10 days. A travel clinic will prioritise what fits your timeline.
Frequently asked questions
Is any vaccine required for Madagascar?
No vaccine is required if you arrive directly from Belgium. Yellow fever is only asked for if you come from (or transit through) a country where it circulates.
Is there a malaria risk?
Malaria: high risk depending on the region. Bite protection and preventive tablets are advised in the high-risk areas; in Antananarivo, bite protection is usually enough, with tablets sometimes advised for more vulnerable travellers. If fever develops, get tested for malaria promptly.
How far ahead of departure should I start?
Ideally 6 to 8 weeks before departure, to complete multi-dose schedules. Yellow fever, where it applies, must be given at least 10 days before arrival.
Our sources
Indicative information for a typical traveller, not medical advice. What you need depends on your itinerary, region, season and duration. See an approved travel clinic 6–8 weeks before departure: only they can give yellow fever and issue the certificate.