Legal/Medical Information
Health Tips for Guinea
Overview
In 2004, Guinea experienced a Cholera epidemic and an increase in cases of Typhoid. For travelers or temporary residents, malaria prophylaxis is highly recommended. Recommended local health care facilities include:
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CMI (located close to the airport) tel: +224-60-29-71-17
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Clinique Ambroise Pare (located on North Corniche next to USAID) tel: +224-64-25-13-44
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Clinique Pasteur (located downtown) tel: +224-64-28-91-21
If urgent medical care is needed please consult with one of the above facilities. You can also pickup the latest medical brochure from our Health Unit when visiting the Consular Section.
Immunizations
Yellow fever vaccine is required for entry into the country of Guinea and must be renewed every 10 years. Quadrivalent Meningicocal vaccine is required every 3 years, typhoid immunization, oral or injectable, and Hepatitis A vaccinations are highly recommended. The rabies vaccine is also recommended due to the prevelance of rabies in West Africa.
Malaria
Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for travelers and temporary residents, starting two weeks before arrival in Guinea. Since Guinea is a chloroquine resistant malaria region, the most effective medications are mefloquine (Lariam) 250 mg once a week, or doxycycline 100 mg daily. Please consult a clinician or a travel medicine clinic for specific information. To avoid mosquito bites, use insect repellants (33% DEET is recommended), wear long pants/sleeves, sleep under a mosquito net, and wear light colors.
Water
Tap water is only safe to drink if distilled or boiled and filtered. Bottled water is widely available.
Food
All raw fruits and vegetables to be eaten unpeeled should be first disinfected in a chlorine bleach solution of one capful per gallon of distilled water, soaked for 20 minutes, then rinsed in distilled water. Only pasteurized dairy products should be bought locally.
Inspect meat and fish for freshness and wash well before eating.
Medicines
American prescription and over-the-counter medications are not generally available in Guinea. Plan to bring with you (in hand baggage) enough for your needs, including contraceptive supplies, vitamins, and pain relievers. Local pharmacies with good quality control include Pharmacie Conseil +224-64-27-11-49 or Pharmacie Manquepas +224-60-21-89-80/+224-64-21-89-80
First Aid Kit
Your travel first aid kit should include:
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Oral re-hydration salts
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Anti-fungal powder
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Cough syrup
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Cold remedies
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Nonprescription painkillers
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Pepto-Bismol
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Lubricant eye drops
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Skin moisturizers
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Antihistamines
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Hydrocortisone cream
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Antiseptic
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Throat lozenges
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Vaginitis remedies
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Anti-inflammatories
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Contraceptive supplies
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Sunscreen
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Imodium
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Insect repellents
If you are traveling with children, bring their vitamins and syrup of ipecac. Supplies to include are:
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Scissors
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Forceps
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Latex gloves
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Soap
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Band-Aids
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Gauze
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Tape
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Thermometer
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Sling
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Ace bandage
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Reusable hot/cold packs
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Water disinfecting tablets
As anywhere in the world, it is essential to care for yourself by exercising and resting on a regular basis, ensuring good nutrition, and dealing with stress in a constructive fashion. Smoking and alcohol use should be cut to a minimum. Culture shock and symptoms caused by excess stress are common. Consider bringing with you those hobbies or possessions that help maintain good mental and physical health.