Medical Overview
The information provided on this page should be used only to inform your knowledge and help you prepare. You should consult your doctor for all official medical advice, leaving at least 4-6 weeks before you travel in case you need vaccinations. You should also make sure before travelling that you have health insurance.
As well as checking your government/health providers advice, additional information can be found on these sites:
Vaccinations
The recommendation for all travellers is that they should be up to date with all routine vaccinations as per the recommendation of their doctor or health service.
The recommendation for most travellers, as is with most countries, is that they should be vaccinated against Hepatitis A, Tetanus and Typhoid. Travellers should receive these vaccinations if they have not had an initial vaccination or require boosters.
The recommendation for some travellers, based on their medical history, health condition or intended activities is that they should be vaccinated against: Diphtheria, Polio, Meningitis Cholera, Hepatitis B, Meningococcal Disease, Rabies and Tuberculosis.
There is a low potential of exposure to yellow fever in some parts of Eritrea, but in most parts there is no risk of exposure. Vaccinations for yellow fever are generally not recommended for travel to areas with low potential. Under international health regulations, a yellow fever certificate is required from travellers over 9 months of age that are arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission, and for travellers having transited for more than 12 hours through an airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
There is risk of malaria in Eritrea in areas below 2,200m. Essentially, if you are travelling outside Asmara you should be using antimalarial tablets.
Medicine
A basic supply of medicine, creams sprays and ointments should be taken with you. Key things to remember are: painkillers, antibacterial and antiseptic wipes/cream, sun cream, mosquito repellent (at least 20% deet), oral re-hydration solution (ORS), bandages etc… Please be aware that this is not an exhaustive list, and that many medical supplies can be obtained in Eritrea.
Remember
Water should only be consumed if it is bottled purified water, or if it has been boiled first. It is also recommended to avoid raw food, cold-cooked food and salads, and any food that has been left out for a sustainted period of time.