Risk / Health Info for Guinea

Before you leave for Guinea consult our advisers about making sure your shots are up to date. Hepatitis A and typhoid vaccinations are recommended for Guinea, especially as they are spread by unsafe water and food. Avoid “traveller’s diarrhea”: practise good food and water precautions: use only commercially bottled or sterilized water, and do not eat food that has not been boiled or cooked or that you have not peeled. Medical facilities can be poor and equipment may not be maintained to the standards expected in the UK. Consider carrying a sterile medical kit and dental supplies.

Dengue fever in Guinea

There have been cases of the mosquito-borne virus dengue fever in Guinea. Dengue fever is also known as breakbone fever because of the severe bone, joint and muscular pains it causes, in addition to flu-like fever and headache. There is no vaccine for dengue fever. Avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellents (50% DEET) and by wearing protective clothing. Sleeping with mosquito nets is also recommended.

Malaria in Guinea

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of Guinea 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 Guinea

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 Guinea. This condition is also known as bilharzia.

yellow fever in Guinea