Risk / Health Info for Guinea Bissau

What inoculations should I get for Guinea-Bissau?

If you are wondering about inoculations to go to Guinea-Bissau, then your healthcare advisor at Global Travel Clinics can help you.

There are outbreaks of cholera from time to time in Guinea-Bissau, so consider getting a vaccine for this. Other food- and water-borne illnesses to get vaccinated against before your trip to Guinea-Bissau include hepatitis A and typhoid.

Some groups of travellers should consider a hepatitis B vaccine. These include children, frequent and long-stay travellers as well as those who will be working in healthcare settings, where they may encounter bodily fluids. Hep B is also contracted through recreational intravenous drug use and unprotected sex and invasive cosmetic procedures.

Guinea-Bissau 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 through respiratory droplets: watch out for poor sneezing etiquette!

The vaccinations for West African travel can appear complex, but there is a set of vaccines that is right for you.

Protect your health in Guinea-Bissau

It is possible to contract several mosquito-borne illnesses in Guinea-Bissau, including malaria, yellow fever, zika and dengue fever, so it is a very good idea to avoid bites wherever possible. You should wear neutral-coloured clothing that covers your arms and legs and treat cuffs with insect repellent. Sleep under nets if you can. And if a vaccine or prophylaxis is available, make use of it.

What healthcare facilities are there in Guinea-Bissau?

The medical facilities found in Guinea-Bissau are limited. It is important to have good travel insurance for Guinea-Bissau.

Dengue fever in Guinea Bissau

There have been cases of the mosquito-borne virus dengue fever in Guinea Bissau. 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.

Malaria in Guinea Bissau

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of Guinea Bissau 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 Guinea Bissau

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 Guinea Bissau. This condition is also known as bilharzia.

Zika in Guinea Bissau

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

yellow fever in Guinea Bissau