Risk / Health Info for Burundi

What immunizations do you need for Burundi?

Check our recommended vaccines list for a trip to Burundi. Our advisers can put together a travel health regime that meets all your needs. Your healthcare adviser at Canadian Travel Clinics can help you make sure your regular shots are up to date before you go to Burundi.

You should also consider vaccinations to prevent hepatitis A, and typhoid, to avoid these gastrointestinal illnesses caused by contaminated food and water. Many cases of cholera have been reported in Burundi, including some fatalities. A vaccine for cholera is available. Avoid other causes of “travellers’ diarrhea” by making sure you drink commercially bottled water in Burundi, and by sticking to foods you can peel or that have been cooked or boiled. Wash your hands frequently.

Which travellers need a hepatitis B vaccine?

Consider a hepatitis B vaccination before travelling to Burundi if you are a healthcare worker or plan to have a surgical procedure, tattoo or piercing in Burundi. Hep B is spread by contact with blood and body fluid, so children can catch it through cuts and grazes. It is also spread by unprotected sex or by unsterilized needles.

Can I catch rabies in Burundi?

It is possible to get rabies in Burundi if an infected animal bites or licks you. Make sure your shot is up to date, especially if you will spend time in remote areas or work with animals. Always get immediate medical attention if you are bitten or scratched by an animal during your time in Burundi, even if you have been vaccinated, so that a healthcare professional can decide whether to recommend post-exposure rabies prophylaxis.

Mosquitoes in Burundi

When you go to Burundi you are at risk of several mosquito-borne illnesses, including malaria, and yellow fever. Protect yourself by using a reliable insect repellent and covering up as much as possible. Ensure you sleep under nets, too. You may need a yellow fever certificate when you travel on from Burundi: ask your adviser at Canadian Travel Clinics whether this is appropriate for you.

What other health risks are there in Burundi?

Think carefully before swimming in Lake Tanganyika, because of water-borne diseases and attacks by wildlife.

Remember to get adequate health insurance coverage before you leave Canada, so check with your provincial or territorial health authority.

Altitude in Burundi

Parts of Burundi are higher than 2,400m, and travellers planning to spend time at a high altitude should take steps to protect themselves against the potentially life-threatening acute mountain sickness. Your healthcare provider can help with this.

Malaria in Burundi

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of Burundi at certain times of year. There is no malaria vaccine, but there are anti-malaria drugs that should be taken before, during and after travelling to certain at-risk countries. Speak with your healthcare provider six weeks before your trip, as not all prophylaxis regimes are appropriate for all regions and all individuals.

Schistosomiasis in Burundi

The schistosomiasis parasite enters humans through the skin during contact with fresh water. To prevent infection, avoid swimming or paddling in lakes and streams in Burundi. This condition is also known as bilharzia.