Risk / Health Info for Chad

What vaccinations should I get for Chad

For a trip to Chad recommended immunisations include diphtheria, hepatitis A, tetanus and typhoid. Take care with the water you drink: boiled or bottled, and it is best to avoid ice.

What diseases are endemic in Chad?

Mosquito- and water-borne diseases are common in Chad, so take sensible precautions when working outdoors. Around 2.5% of the adult population is living with HIV, compared to 0.2% in Canada.

Polio and measles have seen a resurgence in Chad. There is a vaccine for polio and measles given in the Canadian childhood vaccine schedule which should protect you against measles. A booster as an adult every ten years is also recommended by our health experts.

Chad saw several cases of hepatitis E early in 2017. Hepatitis E is contracted through drinking contaminated water. You can reduce your risk of catching hep E during your time in Chad, by drinking only bottled water, and avoiding ice of unknown purity and maintaining good hand hygiene.

Chad 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). The bacteria that causes meningococcal meningitis is spread person-to-person through respiratory droplets.

Rabies cases occur in Chad and if you are going to a remote area or if you are planning a long stay you should consider a rabies vaccine. Children should also be vaccinated against rabies. Get urgent medical attention for an animal bite or scratch, even if you have been vaccinated.

What healthcare hospital medical facilities are there in Chad?

Expect medical facilities to be stretched and hit by strike action. You may need to be evacuated for anything serious or complex so it is important to have good insurance for travel in Chad.

Altitude in Chad

Parts of Chad 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 Chad

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of Chad 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 Chad

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 Chad. This condition is also known as bilharzia.