Risk / Health Info for Angola

What vaccinations do I need for Angola?

Your regular shots should be up to date if you plan to visit Angola. The hepatitis A and typhoid shots are recommended, as they can be contracted through food or water. 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.

What hospital facilities are there in Angola?

Health facilities in most of Angola are limited, but there are expat-run clinics in the capital, Luanda. These are expensive and you will have to pay before treatment. If you travel outside Canada you need travel insurance to make sure you are covered for any medical costs, no matter where you're going or how long you'll be there. Before you leave the country, check with your provincial or territorial health authority for more information.

What diseases are present in Angola?

The following epidemics have occurred in Angola in recent years:

• cholera
• rabies
• African hemorrhagic fevers.

There are also areas with a high incidence of tuberculosis so get local advice when planning your trip.

Do I need a yellow fever certificate for Angola?

There are outbreaks of yellow fever from time to time in Angola and after your visit there you may need a certificate of vaccination to enter your next destination. Check for local advice before you travel.

Protect your health in Angola

Protect yourself from mosquito-borne illnesses such as malaria, chikungunya virus, Zika, dengue fever and yellow fever by using a reliable insect repellent and covering up as much as possible. Bed nets are recommended, too.

Malaria in Angola

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of Angola 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 Angola

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 Angola. This condition is also known as bilharzia.

Dengue fever in Angola

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

Chikungunya virus in Angola

Cases of Chikungunya virus have been reported in Angola. It is spread by day-biting mosquitoes and you can guard against infection by covering up and using mosquito repellents. Infection results in joint pains, fever, rash and headache. It clears up after a few days, but some patients are left with swollen and painful joints for weeks or even years afterwards.

Zika in Angola

Global Affairs Canada has issued a warning about the risk of contracting Zika in Angola. Zika is a viral disease spread by mosquitoes, and infection during pregnancy has been linked to birth defects. Women who are pregnant or planning to get pregnant should take advice before travelling to Angola. Zika symptoms include rash, itch, mild fever, headache, red eyes, muscle and joint pains. Avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellents (50% DEET) and by wearing protective clothing. Mosquito nets and air conditioning should be used when sleeping.