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Country Guide > Africa > Swaziland | |
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Health
1 A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required by travellers over one year of age arriving within six days from infected areas. 2 Following WHO guidelines issued in 1973, a cholera vaccination certificate is no longer a condition of entry to Swaziland. However, cholera is a risk in the 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 Vaccination against typhoid is advised. 4 Malaria risk exists throughout the year (particularly in the rainy season, from November to February) in all Lowveld areas, particularly Big Bend, Mhlume, Simunye and Tshaneni. The predominant falciparum strain is reported to be highly resistant to chloroquine. Food & drink Mains water is generally safe but bottled or sterilised water is preferable. Drinking water outside major cities and towns may be contaminated. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption; exercise caution if milk is of uncertain provenance. 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 endemic. Avoid swimming and paddling in fresh water; swimming pools which are well chlorinated and maintained are safe. Hepatitis A is present; hepatitis B is highly endemic and precautions should be taken. Arthropod-borne diseases such as Crimean-congo haemorrhagic fever, plague, relapsing fever, Rift valley fever and tick-bite fever have been reported. The humid climate may provoke asthma and other respiratory disorders. Rabies is present. Health care Although medical facilities are generally limited in Swaziland, Mbabame Clinic is well-equipped to deal with minor problems. Most international visitors will use private services, frequently attached to the larger hotels. The public sector is improving and treatment is available at low cost. In emergency cases, where specialised treatment is required, the patient may be transported to a South African hospital. Health insurance is recommended. Personal medications may be brought into the country, but a doctor’s note is advisable in case of questioning by authorities. |