Risk / Health Info for Mozambique

What shots do I need for Mozambique?

If you are wondering about immunisations to go to Mozambique, then your healthcare advisor at Global Travel Clinics can help you.

Rabies occurs in Mozambique and if you are going to a remote region or if you will be working with animals, particularly bats and dogs, consider getting this vaccination. Children be vaccinated against rabies as they may get bitten while playing with animals, often on the face or neck. The disease progresses faster if the bite is near the brain. Always seek advice from a healthcare worker if you are bitten or scratched by an animal in Mozambique, even if you have been vaccinated.

Some groups of travellers should think about a hepatitis B vaccine. These include children, frequent and long-stay travellers as well as those who will be working in healthcare. The hep B virus is also contracted through recreational intravenous drug use and unprotected sex. Another infection route is invasive medical or cosmetic procedures.

How can I protect my health in Mozambique

Sanitation in Mozambique is improving but you should take sensible precautions and stick to bottled water. There are some vaccines that can protect you from diseases associated with poor sanitation, including cholera. There is a vaccine for typhoid, a bacterial infection of the intestines. A hepatitis A vaccine will help you avoid another unpleasant GI disease.

It is possible to contract several mosquito-borne illnesses in Mozambique including malaria and dengue fever so it is a very good idea to avoid bites wherever possible. You should wear clothing with good limb coverage and use a reliable insect repellent. Sleep under nets wherever possible. And if a vaccine or prophylaxis is available, make use of it.

What are the medical facilities like in Mozambique?

Health facilities are poor in Mozambique and evacuation to South Africa or North America may be needed. Travel insurance is a must, and ensure you have accessible funds to pay for treatment.

The emergency number in Mozambique is 08911 or 21313103.

Altitude in Mozambique

Parts of Mozambique 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.

Dengue fever in Mozambique

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

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of Mozambique 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 Mozambique

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 Mozambique. This condition is also known as bilharzia.