Risk / Health Info for Lesotho

Which immunization do I need for Lesotho?

You will need a few shots for Lesotho, and you should get these organized well in advance of your trip.

Make sure your vaccines are up to date before you go to Lesotho. Canadian Travel Clinics can recommend additional vaccinations that will keep you healthy when you are there, including hepatitis A, typhoidand cholera. These are unpleasant gastrointestinal illnesses spread by contaminated water and food. You can further reduce the risk of “travellers’ diarrhea” by making sure you drink commercially bottled water in Lesotho, including in your ice cubes, and sticking to foods you can peel or that have been cooked or boiled.

Do I need the hepatitis B shot before I go to Lesotho?

It is also wise to protect yourself against hepatitis B, especially if you plan to visit Lesotho often or stay for a long time. Children are also at risk of hep B, as are people who work in healthcare or dentistry. It is contracted by contact with blood or body fluid, including via unprotected sex or unsterilized needles.

Can I catch rabies in Lesotho?

It is possible to get rabies in Lesotho 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 Lesotho, even if you have been vaccinated so that a healthcare professional can decide whether to recommend post-exposure rabies prophylaxis.

Are there hospitals in Lesotho?

There are basic medical facilities in Lesotho and many travellers drive 90 minutes to Bloemfontein for healthcare. You will have to pay for any treatment you receive so remember to get adequate health insurance coverage before you leave Canada. Check with your provincial or territorial health authority to ensure you have the right coverage for the activities you have planned.

The emergency number in Lesotho is 121.

Other health concerns in Lesotho

About 24% of the population is living with HIV and this is one of the country’s most important development issues. Avoid unprotected sex and contact with blood or body fluid.

Altitude in Lesotho

Parts of Lesotho 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.