Risk / Health Info for Senegal

What vaccines do I need for Senegal?

There are some recommended vaccinations for Senegal and Global Travel Clinics can help you arrange these.

A vaccine for hepatitis A can help you avoid an unpleasant GI illness that strikes travellers; and typhoid is another vaccine to consider before you travel. From time to time outbreaks of cholera are reported in Senegal. There is a cholera vaccine available. You can further protect yourself against food- and water-borne illnesses by taking good care with hand hygiene.

Rabies occurs in Senegal and if you are going to a remote region, a rabies vaccination is worth getting. Children should be protected with a rabies vaccine. Seek urgent medical advice about an animal bite or scratch in Senegal, even if you have been vaccinated.

A meningococcal meningitis vaccine is recommended for travel in Senegal. The bacteria that causes meningococcal meningitis is spread person-to-person through respiratory droplets.

Do you need a hepatitis B vaccine? There are some groups who are more likely to be exposed to hep B, and they should get a shot against it. Children, frequent and long-stay travellers as well as those who will be working in a healthcare setting should ask about a hepatitis B vaccination. Hep B is also contracted through recreational intravenous drug use and unprotected sex. Another infection route is invasive medical or cosmetic procedures.

What other health risks are there in Senegal?

Tropical diseases are more common during the rainy season in Senegal (June to September).

It is possible to contract several mosquito-borne illnesses in Senegal, including dengue fever and malaria, 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 and with air conditioning wherever possible. And if a vaccine or prophylaxis is available, make use of it.

What are the healthcare facilities like in Senegal?

There are medical facilities in Dakar, but they are basic. If you need complex care you will have to be evacuated so ensure that your health insurance is up to date.

Dengue fever in Senegal

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

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of Senegal 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 Senegal

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 Senegal. This condition is also known as bilharzia.