Madagascar Travel Health Guide for US Travelers
A physician-reviewed health and safety guide for Americans traveling to the Republic of Madagascar
Advisory Snapshot: Crime, road safety, and limited advanced healthcare are practical concerns. Check live advisories before departure.
Before You Travel
Travel Clinic Visit
Book 4-8 weeks before departure for vaccines and malaria planning.
Medical Insurance
Carry insurance with emergency evacuation coverage.
Medication Prep
Bring full trip supply in original packaging plus extras.
Yellow Fever & Malaria
Yellow fever: No local yellow fever transmission, but certificate rules can apply if arriving from a risk country.
Malaria: Risk exists in many regions. Chemoprophylaxis and strict mosquito-bite prevention are commonly advised.
Tip: Confirm risk by exact route and elevation, not just country name.
Vaccines Commonly Discussed
Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Hepatitis B
Frequently recommended for many travelers.
Rabies (selected travelers)
Consider for longer stays, remote areas, or animal exposure risk.
Routine Boosters
MMR, Tdap, polio, influenza, and COVID-19 should be current.
Healthcare Access
Higher-level care is concentrated in Antananarivo. Outside major cities, facilities and supplies can be limited.
Evacuation planning: Serious illness/injury may require air evacuation; keep insurer and assistance line handy.
Emergency Contacts
117Police
124Ambulance (availability varies)
+261 20 23 480 00US Embassy Antananarivo
Quick Checklist
- Review CDC + State Department updates
- Start malaria prevention plan before departure
- Pack repellent (DEET/picaridin) and long-sleeve clothing
- Carry backup funds and emergency contacts
- Enroll in STEP at step.state.gov
