Risk / Health Info for Senegal

What immunizations do I need for Senegal?

There are some recommended vaccinations for Senegal 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 Senegal, consider getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and typhoid. These and other 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 Senegal and avoid using ice in drinks. Be sure to practise good hand hygiene.

Senegal 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.

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

It is also wise to protect yourself against hepatitis B, especially if you plan to visit Senegal 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.

Do I need a rabies shot for Senegal?

Rabies is present in Senegal, so make sure you are vaccinated especially if you might be around animals. Children are at particular risk of getting bitten, as are runners and cyclists. Always get immediate medical attention for any animal bite or scratch in Senegal, even if you have had your shot. A healthcare professional will do a risk assessment and decide whether you need post-exposure rabies prophylaxis.

What other health risks are there in Senegal?

Tropical diseases are more common during the rainy season in Senegal (June to September).

It is possible to contract several mosquito-borne illnesses in Senegal, including dengue fever and malaria, 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 and with air conditioning wherever possible. And if a vaccine or prophylaxis is available, make use of it.

What are the healthcare facilities like in Senegal?

There are basic medical facilities in Dakar. You will have to be evacuated for complex treatments. Your provincial or territorial health insurance will not cover you when you leave Canada, so get travel insurance before you go.

Dengue fever in Senegal

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

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of Senegal 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 Senegal

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 Senegal. This condition is also known as bilharzia.