 |
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
|
Info
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Country Guide > Africa > Liberia | |
|
Health
1 A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from all travellers over one year of age. Note that the certificate must be presented with all visa applications. 2 Following WHO guidelines issued in 1973, a cholera vaccination certificate is not a condition of entry to Liberia. However, cholera is a serious risk in this country and precautions are essential. Up-to-date advice should be sought before deciding whether these precautions should include vaccination, as medical opinion is divided over its effectiveness; see the Health appendix. 3 Typhoid is widespread and poliomyelitis is still endemic. 4 Malaria risk, predominantly in the malignant falciparum form, exists all year throughout the country. High resistance to chloroquine and resistance to sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine has been reported. The recommended prophylaxis is mefloquine. Food & drink All water should be regarded as being potentially contaminated. Water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should have first been boiled or otherwise sterilised. Milk is unpasteurised and should be boiled. Powdered or tinned milk is available and is advised, but make sure that it is reconstituted with pure water. Avoid dairy products which are likely to have been made from unboiled milk. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish, preferably served hot. Pork, salad and mayonnaise may carry increased risk. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled. Other risks Bilharzia (schistosomiasis) is present. Avoid swimming and paddling in fresh water; swimming pools which are well chlorinated and maintained are safe. Meningococcal meningitis is a risk, depending on the area visited and time of year. Cutaneous and visceral leishmaniasis occur. Trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness) is reported. Hepatitis B is hyperendemic, and hepatitis A and E are widespread. Rabies is present. For those at high risk, vaccination before arrival should be considered. If you are bitten, seek medical advice without delay. For more information, consult the Health appendix. Health care International travellers are strongly advised to take out full medical insurance before departure. Hospitals are gradually re-emerging in Liberia, but some patients may still need evacuation to medical facilities in Côte d’Ivoire. |