Risk / Health Info for Zimbabwe

Do I need injections for Zimbabwe?

For a trip to Zimbabwe recommended vaccines include hepatitis A and typhoid, which will protect you against two unpleasant GI diseases. Ask your healthcare advisor if you need a tetanus booster before you go, particularly if you are a long-stay traveller.

Some travellers will want to consider a hepatitis B vaccine. Groups at risk of exposure to the hep B virus include children, frequent and long-stay travellers as well as those who will be working in a healthcare setting, including dentistry or in a lab that handles bodily fluids. Hep B is also contracted through recreational intravenous drug use and unprotected sex. Another infection route is invasive medical or cosmetic procedures.

Rabies occurs in Zimbabwe and if you are going to a remote region or if you will be around animals – particularly bats and dogs – consider getting this shot. Children should also be vaccinated against rabies as they may get bitten while playing with animals. Seek urgent medical advice about an animal bite or scratch in Zimbabwe, even if you have been vaccinated.

Is a yellow fever certificate necessary for travel to Zimbabwe? The answer is yes. Your certificate is proof of immunity and a yellow fever vaccine should give you lifelong immunity. So long as you keep the certificate safe, you will never need to get another one.

What healthcare facilities are there in Zimbabwe?

The state of healthcare in Zimbabwe is not good. Hospitals may be too full to admit patients and may not have the drugs, equipment or staff to treat even emergency trauma. Private clinics may not even admit patients until they pay. Evacuation is costly so ensure your travel medical insurance is good.

The emergency number in Zimbabwe is 0800 3222 911.

Will I be able to get hold of any medications I need in Zimbabwe?

Pharmaceuticals are in short supply throughout Zimbabwe and pharmacies may be unable to fill your prescription. You should bring whatever you need for your trip.

Altitude in Zimbabwe

Parts of Zimbabwe 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.

Malaria in Zimbabwe

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of Zimbabwe 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 Zimbabwe

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 Zimbabwe. This condition is also known as bilharzia.

Zika in Zimbabwe

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