Risk / Health Info for Madagascar

What injections should I get for Madagascar

Canadian Travel Clinics can help you work out what immunizations you need to go to Madagascar. Your shots should be up to date before you go to Madagascar. Your healthcare adviser can tell you about shots that will prevent hepatitis A and typhoid, two nasty gastrointestinal illnesses caused by contaminated food and water. You can further reduce the risk of “travellers’ diarrhea” by using only commercially bottled water for drinking and ice cubes. Don’t eat food that you have not peeled yourself or that has not been cooked or boiled.

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

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.

Can I catch rabies in Madagascar?

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

What hospital facilities are there in Madagascar?

The private hospitals in Antananarivo can provide routine medical care but expect to be evacuated if you have complex needs. Remember to get adequate health insurance coverage before you leave Canada: check with your provincial or territorial health authority.

The emergency number in Madagascar is 17 (117 from mobile phone).

Recent disease outbreaks in Madagascar

About 6% of the population of Madagascar has syphilis. Plague cases are often reported during the rainy season.

Altitude in Madagascar

Parts of Madagascar 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 Madagascar

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

Schistosomiasis in Madagascar

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 Madagascar. This condition is also known as bilharzia.