Risk / Health Info for Burkina Faso

What injections do I need for travelling to Burkina Faso?

Tropical diseases, including malaria, are common and there are some recommended inoculations for Burkina Faso. Global Travel Clinics can help you arrange these.

Vaccinations for food and water-borne illnesses such as hepatitis A and typhoid are worth considering before you go to Burkina Faso as these will protect you from some unpleasant GI illnesses.

Burkina Faso is in the African meningitis belt so think about getting a meningococcal meningitis vaccine, particularly if you are travelling during the dry season (December to June) when the dust makes respiratory illnesses easier to catch. The bacteria that causes meningococcal meningitis is spread person-to-person through respiratory droplets.

Rabies occurs in Burkina Faso and if you are going to a remote area or if you will be working with animals – particularly bats and dogs -- consider getting vaccinated. Children should also be vaccinated against rabies as they are at risk of animal bites. Seek medical advice promptly for an animal bite or scratch, even if you have been vaccinated.

What are the healthcare facilities like in Burkina Faso?

Burkina Faso has limited medical facilities and evacuation will be necessary for serious illness. It is important to have good travel insurance when you go to Burkina Faso.

Outbreaks in Burkina Faso

Cases of Lassa fever, an acute viral haemorrhagic illness, have occurred recently in Burkina Faso. Lassa fever is transmitted person-to-person or picked up from rodent urine or faeces.

Malaria in Burkina Faso

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of Burkina Faso 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 Burkina Faso

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 Burkina Faso. This condition is also known as bilharzia.

Dengue fever in Burkina Faso

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