Gambia Holiday Information: Inoculation - Vaccinations - Imunisations
Medical Advice
No inoculations are compulsory for entry to The Gambia, but it is recommended that prospective travellers take medical advice at least three weeks before departing for the country. Recommended vaccinations include Typhoid, Yellow Fever, Meningitis A, Hepatitis A and Polio. Anti-malarial medication is generally advised. Visitors are advised to carry with them preparations for dehydration, stomach upsets, insect bites and cuts, as well as mosquito repellent and sun block, because these are not readily available in The Gambia. Food poisoning is a major risk in The Gambia and travellers are advised to make sure their food and water are safe; drink only bottled water, ensure meat and vegetables are well cooked and avoid unpeeled fruit and vegetables. Travel insurance is recommended.
You must discuss your own particular needs and contraindications to vaccines or tablets with your doctor or practice nurse. Advice can change so check again for future visits.
Ensure you are fully insured for medical emergencies including repatriation. The ‘T6’ leaflet (from Post Offices) gives details of health care agreements between countries and an application form for care within EC countries, which must be completed before departure
Confirm those recommended for use in Britain are up to date, especially those for children and adult boosters of tetanus.
- Courses or boosters usually advised: hepatitis A; typhoid; diphtheria; yellow fever.
- Vaccines sometimes advised: hepatitis B; poliomyelitis; rabies; tuberculosis; meningococcal A & C.
- Yellow fever certificate required if over 1 year old and entering from an endemic or infected area .
NOTES ON THE DISEASES MENTIONED BELOW
Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease transmitted by mosquitoes. You cannot be vaccinated against malaria.
MALARIA PRECAUTIONS
Malaria precautions are essential in all areas, all year round. Avoid mosquito bites by covering up with clothing such as long sleeves and long trousers especially after sunset, using insect repellents on exposed skin and, when necessary, sleeping under a mosquito net.
Check with your doctor or nurse about suitable antimalarial tablets.
(Mefloquine OR doxycycline OR Malarone is usually recommended).
Prompt investigation of fever is essential. If travelling to remote areas, a course of emergency 'standby' treatment should be carried.
Gambia Holidays - Medical Advice - Inoculation - Vaccinations - Imunisations
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