Risk / Health Info for French Guiana

What inoculations do I need for French Guiana?

The health requirements for French Guiana may seem complex, but our experts can advise you. There are two vaccines that can provide protection against two GI illnesses: hepatitis A and typhoid.

Some groups of travellers should consider hepatitis B inoculation before going to French Guiana. These include children, frequent and long-stay travellers as well as those who will be working in a healthcare setting, including dentistry or in a lab that handles body fluids. Hep B is also contracted through recreational intravenous drug use and unprotected sex. Another infection route is invasive medical or cosmetic procedures.

It is possible to contract rabies in French Guiana if you are bitten or scratched by an infected animal. Travellers going to a remote region or who plan to work with animals should ask about a rabies shot. Children should also be vaccinated against rabies as they may get bitten while playing with animals, often on the face or neck. Seek urgent medical advice about an animal bite or scratch in French Guiana, even if you have had the rabies shot.

Are you wondering ‘Is a yellow fever certificate needed to go to French Guiana?’ The answer is yes. The vaccine gives lifelong immunity and your certificate is proof of this. So long as you keep the certificate safe, you will never need to get another yellow fever vaccination.

Can I get healthcare in French Guiana?

Your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) provides cover in French Guiana. This card will get you treatment, but it will not cover evacuation or repatriation, for that you will need travel insurance.

The emergency number in French Guiana is 15.

Protect your health in French Guiana

It is possible to contract several mosquito-borne illnesses in French Guiana, including zika, Chikungunya virus, dengue, malaria and yellow 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. There is a vaccine for yellow fever and anti-malarial tablets are available. Ask your advisor if these are suitable for you.

Chikungunya virus in French Guiana

Cases of Chikungunya virus have been reported in French Guiana. 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.

Dengue fever in French Guiana

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

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of French Guiana 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.

Zika in French Guiana

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