World Country Guide

1
Immunisation against poliomyelitis and typhoid is sometimes recommended.

2
Malaria risk in the benign vivax form exists from July to October in some villages in the southeastern part of the country.

Food & drink
All water should be regarded as being a potential health risk. Boiled water is readily available and should be used. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption. 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
Hepatitis A occurs. Immunisation against hepatitis B should be considered. Outbreaks of diphtheria and anthrax have been reported.
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. Travellers staying for more than one month must present a medical certificate proving they are HIV-negative. If not holding the required documentation, they will be subject to a compulsory AIDS test on arrival.

Health care
The health service provides free medical treatment for all citizens in principle. A reciprocal health agreement for urgent medical treatment exists with the UK. In order to obtain treatment, some proof of UK residence will be required. Small sums may have to be paid for medicines and hospital treatment. If a longer stay than originally planned becomes necessary because of the illness, the visitor has to pay for all further treatment. Owing to the present state of medical services, emergency evacuation travel insurance is recommended for all travellers. It is also advisable to take a supply of those medicines that are likely to be required (but check first that they may be legally imported) as medicines can prove very difficult to get hold of.