Congo Travel Health Advice
Malaria is prevalent in the Congo and a prophylaxis with Lariam, Malarone or doxycycline is recommended for all areas. A yellow fever vaccination is required for all travellers to the Congo over one year of age. Vaccinations are also recommended for hepatitis A, hepatitis B and typhoid. Visitors should also ensure that they are up to date on their vaccinations for polio, MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) and tetanus-diphtheria. Those who plan on spending a lot of time outdoors and will be at risk of animal bites should consider a rabies vaccination. HIV Aids is common in the Congo and visitors should be sure not to engage in unprotected sex.
Medical facilities are extremely limited throughout the country, particularly in rural areas. Many medicines are in short supply and travellers should bring their own supplies of medications they require, in their original packaging, and with a dated and signed letter from a doctor detailing what the medication is and why it is required. Visitors should not drink tap water unless it has been filtered, chemically treated or boiled. Visitors should ensure that they have comprehensive travel insurance as any serious injury or illness is likely to require medical evacuation.
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