Inoculation regulations can change at short notice. Please take medical advice in the case of doubt. 1 A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers over one year of age arriving within six days from infected areas.
2 Typhoid can be contracted through contaminated drinking water or food in the area. A vaccination is sometimes recommended.
Food & drink Mains water is normally chlorinated, and whilst relatively safe, may cause mild abdominal upsets. Bottled water is available and is advised for the first few weeks of the stay. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption. Local meat, poultry, seafood, fruit and vegetables are generally considered safe to eat.
Other risks Hepatitis A occurs along with dengue fever and leptospirosis. Bilharzia (schistosomiasis) is present. Avoid swimming and paddling in fresh water; swimming pools which are well chlorinated and maintained are safe. Immunisation against hepatitis B, diphtheria and tuberculosis is sometimes advised. 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, see the Health appendix. Costs of health care are high and full health insurance is essential.
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