Risk / Health Info for Mozambique

What immunizations do I need for Mozambique?

If you are wondering about vaccines to go to Mozambique, then your healthcare adviser at Canadian Travel Clinics can help you.

Can I catch rabies in Mozambique?

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

Should I get vaccinated against hepatitis B before going to Mozambique?

Regular travellers and long-stay visitors should consider getting vaccinated against hepatitis B, which is spread by contact with contaminated blood or body products. Other groups at risk include children and healthcare workers. If you think you are at elevated risk of exposure to hep B, tell your Canadian Travel Clinics adviser.

How can I protect my health in Mozambique

Your healthcare adviser at Canadian Travel Clinics can help you make sure your regular shots are up to date before you go to Mozambique. You should also consider vaccinations to prevent hepatitis A and typhoid, to avoid these gastrointestinal illnesses caused by contaminated food and water. Avoid other causes of “travellers’ diarrhea” by making sure you drink commercially bottled water in Mozambique, and by sticking to foods you can peel or that have been cooked or boiled. Wash your hands frequently.

It is possible to contract several mosquito-borne illnesses in Mozambique including malaria and dengue fever so it is a very good idea to avoid bites wherever possible. You should wear clothing with good limb coverage and use a reliable insect repellent. Sleep under nets wherever possible. And if a vaccine or prophylaxis is available, make use of it.

What are the medical facilities like in Mozambique?

Health facilities are poor in Mozambique and evacuation to South Africa or back to Canada may be needed for serious cases. It’s recommended you purchase travel insurance before you leave Canada. Contact your provincial or territorial health authority for more information.

The emergency number in Mozambique is 08911 or 21313103.

Altitude in Mozambique

Parts of Mozambique 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.

Dengue fever in Mozambique

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

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of Mozambique 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 Mozambique

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 Mozambique. This condition is also known as bilharzia.