World Country Guide

1
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers over one year of age coming from all countries.

2
Following WHO guidelines issued in 1973, a cholera vaccination certificate is no longer a condition of entry to Cte d’Ivoire. However, cholera is a serious risk in this country and precautions are essential. Up-to-date advice should be sought before deciding whether these precautions should include vaccination, as medical opinion is divided over its effectiveness; see the Health appendix for more information.

3
Immunisation against typhoid is usually advised.

4
Malaria risk (and risk of other insect-borne diseases) exists throughout the year in the whole country, including urban areas. The malignant falciparum form is prevalent. Resistance to chloroquine and sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine has been reported. A weekly dose of mefloquine is the recommended prophylaxis.

Food & drink
All water should be regarded as being potentially contaminated. Water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should have first been boiled or otherwise sterilised. Milk is unpasteurised and should be boiled. Powdered or tinned milk is available and is advised, but make sure that it is reconstituted with pure water. Avoid dairy products which are likely to have been made from unboiled milk. Only eat well cooked meat and fish, preferably served hot. Pork, salad and mayonnaise may carry increased risk. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled.

Other risks
Bilharzia (schistosomiasis) is present. Avoid swimming and paddling in fresh water; swimming pools which are well chlorinated and maintained are safe. Hepatitis B is hyperendemic and hepatitis A and E are widespread. Meningitis risk is present depending on area visited and time of year. Sleeping sickness (trypanosomiasis) is reported. There have been recent cases of ebola. There is a high incidence of HIV/AIDS.
Rabies is present. For those at high risk, vaccination before arrival should be considered. If you are bitten, seek medical advice without delay. For more information, consult the Health appendix.

Health care
Health care facilities in the main towns are up to international standards but expensive; medical insurance is essential.