Health policies require that all travellers arriving from a
yellow fever area have a vaccination certificate, but yellow fever
is a risk throughout the country and immunisation is recommended
for all visitors. Other recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis
A, typhoid, rabies and polio. Malaria and dengue fever are high
risks and precautions against mosquito bites are advised, as well
as prophylaxis for malaria, which occurs throughout the year.
Outbreaks of Lassa fever is endemic in the east. HIV/AIDS is
prevalent. Diarrhoea and dysentery are common complaints and water
should be treated before drinking. Cholera is also a concern.
Travellers should bring adequate supplies of personal medication to
the country, as supplies are often not available in pharmacies.
Medical care is limited in Freetown and almost non-existent
elsewhere. An emergency hospital is located near Freetown, but the
bad road makes it difficult to get there; there is no ambulance
service in the country. Comprehensive travel insurance is advised,
which includes emergency evacuation.
View information on diseases: Yellow fever,
Typhoid fever,
Rabies,
Malaria,
HIV/AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Diseases,
Hepatitis A,
Dengue Fever,
Cholera