Prevention
Travel health for journeys between Europe and central Africa
· Dr James Tataw Ashu · Medically reviewed
Vaccination, malaria prevention and medication planning should start six weeks before departure.
Travel between Europe and central Africa carries predictable, preventable health risks, and preparation should begin about six weeks before departure.
Vaccination requirements include yellow fever for several countries in the region, with routine vaccinations reviewed and updated at the same appointment.
Malaria prevention combines chemoprophylaxis where indicated with mosquito avoidance measures. Neither alone is sufficient, and adherence after return matters as much as during the trip.
For travellers with chronic conditions, carry sufficient medication in hand luggage, in original packaging, with a doctor's letter listing generic names and doses.
Any fever after returning from a malaria-endemic area is a medical emergency until proven otherwise. Say where you have travelled at the first contact with care.
This article is general education. It does not constitute individual medical advice and does not create a doctor–patient relationship. For emergencies, contact the emergency services in your current location.
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