Risk / Health Info for Central African Republic

Do I need any vaccines to go to Central African Republic?

The health requirements for Central African Republic are complex, but our experts can advise you. Before you leave for Central African Republic (CAR), consult our advisers about making sure your shots are up to date, including polio. Hepatitis A, cholera and typhoid vaccinations are recommended, especially as they are spread by unsafe water and food. Avoid “traveller’s diarrhea”: practise good food and water precautions. Use only commercially bottled or sterilized water, and do not eat food that has not been boiled or cooked or that you have not peeled.

Central African Republic (CAR) 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.

Should I get vaccinated against rabies before I go to Central African Republic (CAR)?

Rabies occurs in Central African Republic (CAR) so you should protect yourself with the shot, particularly if you will be working with animals or are at risk from animal bites (for example if you plan to run or cycle). Children are also at elevated risk as they may be bitten while playing with an animal. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal in Central African Republic (CAR), seek urgent advice even if you have had the vaccine as you may need post-exposure rabies prophylaxis.

Should I get a hepatitis B shot?

Travellers who plan to visit Central African Republic (CAR) often or to 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 Central African Republic (CAR), 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.

What healthcare facilities are there in Central African Republic (CAR)?

Medical facilities in CAR are very limited and often severely reduced by strike action. Remember you need travel insurance whenever you leave Canada. Before you leave the country, check with your provincial or territorial health authority for more information.

The emergency number in Central African Republic (CAR) is 610600.

Dengue fever in Central African Republic

There have been cases of the mosquito-borne virus dengue fever in Central African Republic. 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 Central African Republic

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of Central African Republic 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 Central African Republic

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 Central African Republic. This condition is also known as bilharzia.