Mozambique travel advice health

Travel Advice for Mozambique: Malaria and Yellow Fever

Malaria:

Visitors to Mozambique are strongly advised to take anti-malaria prophylaxis. The best precaution to take is to prevent mosquito bites by using mosquito nets, wearing repellents, and clothe that covers the body, especially at night. Malaria is prevalent throughout the year in many regions of the country, with higher risks during and just after the rainy season. 

Yellow Fever:

Travelers who live in or have passed through one of the 43 countries regarded to be endemic for yellow fever must mandatorily present a vaccination certificate or equivalent document upon entering Mozambique. Those without a certificate may be vaccinated at the point of entry for a fee of 1,350 meticais.

The 43 countries included are:

Angola, Benin, Bolivia, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Chad, Colombia, Congo, Ivory Coast, Ecuador, Ethiopia, French Polynesia, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guyana, Guinea-Conakry, Guinea-Bissau, Equatorial Guinea, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Panama, Peru, Kenya, Central African Republic, DR Congo, Rwanda, Somalia, São Tomé and Príncipe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Suriname, Tanzania, Togo, Trinidad and Tobago, Uganda, and Venezuela.

It's crucial to receive the yellow fever vaccination at least 10 days before travel to ensure the vaccine's effectiveness and to avoid any travel disruptions. Keep the vaccination certificate accessible during your travels, as you may need to present it more than once.

General Health Advice:

It's important to also consider other health precautions when planning your trip. Drink bottled or filtered water and be cautious with raw foods to avoid waterborne illnesses. Be vigilant with personal security, especially in areas less frequented by tourists.

Documents & Identification

Travellers are required to carry some form of identification at all times. Usually, the police may request it. Instead of carrying your original documents, it is preferable to carry an authenticated photocopy of your passport and other important documents, keeping the originals in a safe place. This way, your vital information is protected in case of loss or theft.

Cholera in Mozambique

Cholera is an acute diarrheal illness caused by ingestion of food or water contaminated with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. Mozambique frequently reports instances of cholera, especially in areas with limited access to clean water and sanitation facilities. Active transmission of cholera is widespread, and outbreaks can occur annually, particularly in the rainy season when flooding and inadequate infrastructure contribute to the spread of the disease.

While the risk of cholera for travelers is typically low, certain conditions may increase the likelihood of contracting cholera or experiencing more severe symptoms. Vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, or individuals with compromised immune systems should be particularly cautious. It's crucial for all travelers to adhere to preventive measures:

Preventive Measures:

- Ensure you consume safe, treated or bottled water. Avoid ice unless you are sure it is made from safe water.

- Eat food that is completely cooked and still hot when served. Avoid raw or undercooked meat and seafood.

- Steer clear of fruits and vegetables that you cannot peel yourself, and be wary of street food and open-air markets where food sanitation practices may not be adequate.

- Practice good hand hygiene, washing with soap and safe water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially before eating or preparing food and after using the bathroom.

Cholera Vaccination:

For those traveling to areas of Mozambique with active cholera transmission, a cholera vaccine may be recommended. The vaccine is available for both children (over the age of two) and adults, and can significantly reduce the risk of cholera infection. Vaccination can be particularly important for humanitarian aid workers, health professionals, and individuals visiting friends and family in affected regions.

Hepatitis A and B

Hepatitis A vaccination is recommended for unvaccinated travellers aged one year or older visiting Mozambique. Infants between 6 and 11 months old should receive a vaccination too, but this dose will not be counted as part of the standard two-dose series given later. If allergic to the vaccine or under 6 months old, travellers should receive a dose of immune globulin for short-term protection. Unvaccinated travellers who are over 40, immunocompromised, or have chronic conditions and who are travelling soon should receive both the vaccine and immune globulin for immediate protection.

The CDC recommends Hepatitis B vaccination for all unvaccinated travellers going to Mozambique, regardless of age.

Rabies

Rabies Risk in Mozambique:

Travellers to Mozambique should be aware of the risk of rabies, primarily due to rabid dogs. In case of an animal bite or scratch, appropriate rabies treatment may not be readily available. 

Pre-travel rabies vaccination is recommended for travellers who might come into contact with dogs or wildlife, including those who plan to camp, partake in adventure activities, explore caves, work with animals, or visit rural areas. Children, who are more likely to receive animal bites, should also be considered for vaccination. Caution should be exercised around animals, and immediate medical attention sought if bitten or scratched.

General advice for travellers to Mozambique

Eat and Drink Safely: To avoid foodborne and waterborne illnesses, consume only food that is fully cooked and served hot. Drink beverages from sealed containers or water that has been treated. Steer clear of ice unless you know it's made from safe water, and avoid raw or improperly washed fruits and vegetables.

Prevent Bug Bites: Use insect repellent on exposed skin and clothing. Wear long sleeves, pants, and hats to cover your skin, and consider using a bed net if you're sleeping in an area exposed to the outdoors. Stay in air-conditioned or well-screened lodging when possible.

Stay Safe Outdoors: If you're engaging in outdoor activities, wear appropriate safety gear and be mindful of the weather and terrain. Protect yourself from the sun with a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, and stay hydrated to prevent heat-related illnesses.

Keep Away from Animals: Avoid touching, feeding, or getting too close to wild or stray animals to reduce the risk of bites and exposure to diseases such as rabies. If you're bitten or scratched, seek medical attention immediately, regardless of your rabies vaccination status.

Reduce Your Exposure to Germs: Practice good hand hygiene by washing hands frequently with soap and water, especially before eating or after using the restroom. Carry hand sanitizer for situations where soap and water are not available.

Avoid Sharing Body Fluids: Protect yourself against infections that are transmitted through body fluids by not sharing needles or engaging in unprotected sexual activity. In case of injury, ensure that clean and sterile equipment is used for medical procedures.

Know How to Get Medical Care While Traveling: Research medical facilities in your destination and have a plan for accessing healthcare services in case of emergency. Check your health insurance coverage and consider travel insurance that includes medical evacuation.

Select Safe Transportation: Utilize reputable transportation providers. Always wear seat belts in vehicles and helmets on bikes or motorcycles. Be aware of local traffic laws and conditions.

Maintain Personal Security: Stay informed about the safety and political conditions of your destination. Keep your belongings secure, be cautious in crowded areas to avoid pickpocketing, and avoid high-risk areas, especially after dark. Respect local customs and laws.