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Malaria in Australia - Torres Strait

02 August 2023

Queensland health authorities report 3 cases of malaria on Saibai Island, in the Torres Strait. A previousmalaria case was detected on Boigu Island in early July 2023. Malaria does not usually occur anywhere in Australia: these are the first cases seen in the Torres Strait since 2013.

Mosquito control measures have been carried out on Boigu and Saibai islands, as well as door-to-door screening for symptoms in the local population. Health authorities have advised rigourous mosquito bite avoidance.

Advice for Travellers

Travellers to the Torres Strait should:

  • be made aware of the risk of malaria, given the current occurrence of cases.
  • 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 malarious areas should 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.