Risk / Health Info for Mali

What shots do I need for Mali?

There are some recommended inoculations for Mali and Canadian Travel Clinics can help you arrange these. In addition to your regular shots, which should be up to date before you leave for Mali, consider getting vaccinated against cholera, hepatitis A and typhoid. These unpleasant gastrointestinal diseases are easily picked up in areas with poor sanitation and are spread by contaminated food and water. Stick to commercially bottled water in Mali and avoid using ice in drinks. Be sure to practise good hand hygiene.

Mali is in the African meningitis belt so meningococcal meningitis shots are recommended, especially for visits between December and June. Meningococcal meningitis is spread person-to-person like a flu or cold, so practise good cough and sneeze etiquette by washing your hands frequently and covering your mouth and nose with your arm when you cough or sneeze.

You may need a yellow fever shot and certificate for when you travel on from Mali: ask your adviser at Canadian Travel Clinics whether this is appropriate for you.

Should I get a hepatitis B shot?

Travellers who plan to visit Mali often or stay an extended period should get the hepatitis B shot. Spread by contact with blood or body fluids, hep B is also a risk for people who work in healthcare or dentistry in Mali, or for anyone who comes in contact with unsterilized needles or engages in unprotected sex. Children are also at risk of hepatitis B through cuts and scrapes.

Are there hospitals in Mali?

The medical facilities in Mali are limited. It is highly recommended that you purchase travel health insurance before you leave Canada because provincial or territorial health plans may not cover medical costs while outside the country. Contact your provincial or territorial health authority for more information.

Protect your health in Mali

It is possible to contract several mosquito-borne illnesses in Mali so it is a very good idea to avoid bites wherever possible. You should wear clothing that covers your arms and legs and treat it with a reliable insect repellent. Sleep under nets wherever possible. And if a vaccine or prophylaxis is available, make use of it.

Dengue fever in Mali

There have been cases of the mosquito-borne virus dengue fever in Mali. 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 Mali

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of Mali 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.