Risk / Health Info for Angola

If you are travelling to Angola, vaccinations are recommended to protect you from several diseases. The vaccinations you need for Angola include hepatitis A and typhoid. You should also consider a vaccine for hepatitis B, if you are expecting any healthcare procedures, or piercing and tattoos during your time in Angola. A vaccination for meningococcal meningitis may be recommended before you go to Angola particularly if you are travelling between December and June, and if you are going to other nations in the region.

What hospital facilities are there in Angola?

In the capital of Angola, Luanda, you will find expatriate run private clinics. These charge high fees and you will have to pay in advance. Health services in the rest Angola are limited.

What diseases are present in Angola?

Epidemics including cholera, rabies and African hemorrhagic fevers are common in some parts of Angola. Many regions have a high incidence of tuberculosis (TB). There are outbreaks of yellow fever from time to time in Angola and after your visit there you may need a certificate of vaccination to enter your next destination. Check for local advice before you travel.

Is there zika in Angola?

According to the Canadian authorities, there is a risk of zika transmission in Angola. You should take precautions against mosquito bites, and pregnant women should get advice before travelling.

Malaria in Angola

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of Angola 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 Angola

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 Angola. This condition is also known as bilharzia.

Dengue fever in Angola

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

Chikungunya virus in Angola

Cases of Chikungunya virus have been reported in Angola. It is spread by day-biting mosquitoes and you can guard against infection by covering up and using mosquito repellents. Infection results in joint pains, fever, rash and headache. It clears up after a few days, but some patients are left with swollen and painful joints for weeks or even years afterwards.

Zika in Angola

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