Risk / Health Info for Mali

What inoculations do I need for Mali?

There are some recommended shots for Mali and Global Travel Clinics can help you arrange these. Cholera is common in Mali, and there is a vaccine for it. You can also get shots for two other GI illnesses: hepatitis A and typhoid. You can further protect yourself by drinking bottled water and ensuring your food is well cooked and hygienically prepared.

Mali is in the African meningitis belt so think about getting a meningococcal meningitis vaccine, particularly if you will be there during the dry season (December to June). Meningococcal meningitis bacteria spreads through respiratory droplets.

There are some travellers to Mali who should consider a hepatitis B vaccine. Frequent and long-stay travellers should look at getting a hepatitis B immunisation. Children should also be vaccinated against hepatitis B as it can be picked up from a cut or a graze. Healthcare workers should, too, as bodily fluids can be a source of infection.

You may need a yellow fever vaccination and certificate for when you travel on from Mali: ask your advisor at Global Travel Clinics whether this is appropriate for you.

Are there hospitals in Mali?

The medical facilities in Mali are limited. Ensure your travel insurance is adequate as medical evacuation may be necessary if you require complex treatment.

Protect your health in Mali

It is possible to contract several mosquito-borne illnesses in Mali so it is a very good idea to avoid bites wherever possible. You should wear clothing that covers your arms and legs and treat it with a reliable insect repellent. Sleep under nets wherever possible. And if a vaccine or prophylaxis is available, make use of it.

Dengue fever in Mali

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

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of Mali 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.