World Country Guide

1
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travellers coming from infected areas.

2
Vaccination against typhoid is advised.

3
Malaria risk exists throughout the year except in some outlying islets in the east and south. The malignant falciparum strain is present and is reported to be resistant to chloroquine and sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine. The recommended prophylaxis is chloroquine plus proguanil.

Food & drink
All water should be regarded as being a potential health risk. Water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should first be 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 that 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
Immunisation against hepatitis A is recommended. Hepatitis B is endemic. Filariasis occurs. Dengue fever is now a major health risk. There have also been reports of Legionnaires Disease from Auki in the Malaita Province. Coelenterates, poisonous fish and sea snakes are a hazard to bathers.

Health care
Medical facilities are very limited and there are drug shortages. There are eight hospitals, the largest being the Central Hospital in Honiara. Church missions provide medical facilities on outlying islands. Health insurance is essential. There are no decompression facilities.