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Country Guide > Africa > Togo | |
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Health
1 A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from all travellers over one year of age. 2 Following WHO guidelines issued in 1973, a cholera vaccination certificate is not a condition of entry to Togo. 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 for more information. 3 Vaccination against typhoid is advised. 4 Malaria risk exists throughout the year in the whole country. The predominant malignant falciparum form is reported to be resistant to chloroquine. The recommended prophylaxis is mefloquine. Food & drink All water should be regarded as a potential health risk. 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. Trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness) is reported, as are hepatitis A, B and E and meningococcal meningitis. Dracuncaliasis is common in the indigenous population, but unlikely to pose a significant threat to travellers. 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 Limited medical services are provided by the state. Most towns have either a hospital or a dispensary, but these are usually overcrowded and lack adequate supplies. Visitors who get seriously ill are advised to contact their Embassy, which can refer them to a specialist or arrange evacuation. Health insurance and a good supply of personal medical provisions are recommended. There is no reciprocal health agreement with the UK or USA. It is important to carry a basic first aid kit. |