Risk / Health Info for Gabon

What vaccinations do I need for Gabon?

What immunisations do you need for Gabon? Our advisors can put together a travel health regime that meets all your needs. This regime may include shots for typhoid and hepatitis A. These GI illnesses can be picked up from food and water in areas where sanitation is less than good.

Another shot that some groups of travellers should consider is a hepatitis B jab. The group includes children, frequent and long-stay travellers as well as those who will be working in healthcare. The virus that causes hep B can be picked up recreational intravenous drug use and unprotected sex. Another infection route is invasive medical or cosmetic procedures.

Can I get healthcare in Gabon?

In rural areas of Gabon medical facilities are limited. Insurance is a must for travel in Gabon.

Other health issues in Gabon

UNAIDS estimates that 3.8% of the adult population of Gabon is living with HIV. The Canadian prevalence is 0.2%. You should take precautions to avoid being infected with HIV such as practising safer sex.

Protect your health in Gabon

It is possible to contract several mosquito-borne illnesses in Gabon so it is a very good idea to avoid bites wherever possible. You should wear clothing with good limb coverage and use a reliable insect repellent. Sleep under nets wherever possible. And if a vaccine or prophylaxis is available, make use of it.

Dengue fever in Gabon

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

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of Gabon 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 Gabon

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 Gabon. This condition is also known as bilharzia.

Zika in Gabon

Global Affairs Canada has issued a warning about the risk of contracting Zika in Gabon. 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 Gabon. 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.

yellow fever in Gabon