Risk / Health Info for Rwanda

What jabs should I get for Rwanda?

The inoculations you need for Rwanda are listed on this page. They include hepatitis A and typhoid, two GI illnesses.

There are cases of meningitis in Rwanda so think about getting a meningococcal meningitis vaccine. The bacteria that causes meningococcal meningitis is spread person-to-person through respiratory droplets so it is tricky to take other precautions against infection.

Rabies occurs in Rwanda and if you are going to a remote region or if you are going to spend time with dogs consider getting this jab. Children should also be vaccinated against rabies as they often fall victim to animal bites. Seek urgent medical advice if an animal bites or scratches you in Rwanda, even if you have been vaccinated.

Some travellers will need a hepatitis B vaccine. This group includes:

• frequent and long-stay travellers
• healthcare workers
• children
• intravenous recreational drug users.

Hep B is contracted via bodily fluids and while practising safer sex offers a degree of protection the vaccine is the best line of defence.

Are there hospitals in Rwanda?

Medical facilities in Rwanda are limited. If you become seriously ill you may need to be taken to South Africa or Kenya. By law you must have travel health insurance for your time in Rwanda and you should make sure you have accessible funds to cover any healthcare you may need.

The emergency number in Rwanda is 112.

Altitude in Rwanda

Parts of Rwanda 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 Rwanda

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of Rwanda 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 Rwanda

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 Rwanda. This condition is also known as bilharzia.