Malaria Returns to Cabo Verde

Although the Republic of Cabo Verde, an island country in the central Atlantic Ocean, was certified as malaria-free in January 2024, recent data show that the risk of this mosquito-borne disease remains in 2025.

As of late August 2025, a total of 16 locally acquired cases of malaria have been reported in the City of Praia, which has over 130,000 residents.

The African CDC wrote that with the onset of the rainy season, it is crucial to intensify epidemiological surveillance, promote early case detection, and ensure a swift response to prevent outbreaks and protect the population.

This study, published by PLOS Global Public Health, provides an overview of the central historical moments of malaria in Cabo Verde, from control to certification. It presents data from the last 35 years of malaria in the country (1988–2022), the distribution of these cases by islands and municipalities, the instituted control measures, lessons learnt, and some challenges for the future prevention of malaria reintroduction in Cabo Verde.

As of October 15, 2025, malaria vaccines are available in select African countries.

And the U.S. CDC recommends various routine and travel vaccinations before visiting Cabo Verde.