Ivory Coast Health Overview Print this Guide |  Email this Guide

There are a variety of health risks prevalent in Ivory Coast, and a yellow fever vaccination is required for entry. Immigration officials will check this at the airport. Cholera is present in rural areas, and malaria is widespread even in urban areas. Typhoid and hepatitis A vaccinations are also recommended. Meningococcal vaccine is recommended for travel between November and June. HIV/AIDS is widespread and dengue fever can occur. Cases of bird flu have been confirmed in Abidjan, but no human infections have been reported. There is low risk to travellers, but as a precaution close contact with live birds should be avoided and all poultry and egg dishes should be well cooked. All water should be sterilised before use, and milk, which is unpasteurised, should be boiled. Avoid dairy products and ensure meat is well cooked and eaten hot. Fruit and vegetables should be cooked and/or peeled before consumption. Medical treatment in Abidjan is of reasonable standard, but private care is expensive, and facilities outside the major towns are very limited. Medical insurance with provision for repatriation is essential.