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Health
and medical services
A yellow fever vaccination prior to entry into Sudan is mandatory,
although this is seldom checked; it is advised to have vaccination
records on hand. It is also advisable to be up to date with
immunisations against diphtheria, tetanus, polio, water-borne
hepatitis A, blood-borne hepatitis B, meningitis and typhoid. It
is recommended that you visit your doctor or travel clinic a minimum
of six weeks before departure to allow time for any course of
immunisations that may be required. Last-minute injections can give
only partial cover for some diseases. The hepatitis A vaccine (such
as Havrix Monodose) initially gives protection for one year, but can
be boosted with a second injection to proved cover for ten years.
Travellers’ diarrhoea: the medical complaint that visitors are most
likely to experience in Sudan is a bout of diarrhoea. Contaminated
food is the most likely source of illness, but many factors can
contribute to making the body susceptible to diarrhoea. Strict
hygiene is the best way to avoid diarrhoea. When it comes to food,
the old adage ‘boil it, cook it, peel it or forget it’. It is best
to stick to bottled or treated water.
Malaria is endemic in Sudan and prophylaxis should be sought before
travelling. Malaria kills about a million Africans every year.
Malaria is caused by the parasite Plasmodium falciparum,
spread by the bite of the female Anopheles mosquito, which
flies between dusk and dawn. Mefloquine (Lariam) is the most
effective prophylactic agent for Sudan but is not suitable for
everyone, so should only be taken on a doctor’s recommendation. If
this drug is suggested, then start two and a half weeks before
departure to check it suits you. Taking anti-malarial prophylaxis
does not offer clear-cut protection against the disease, and you
should take all reasonable steps to avoid being bitten by
mosquitoes. Insect repellents are vital. The should contain the
chemical DEET.
Other prevalent diseases include salmonella, typhoid, shigella,
giardia, bilharzia (schistosomiasis), hepatitis A and amoebiasis.
Sun and heat: the sun in Sudan can be very harsh. There is never
any cloud cover in Khartoum. Sunstroke and dehydration are serious
risks. Wearing sunscreen, wearing loose clothing and drinking more
than 2 litres a day is essential.
Pharmacies in town are well stocked with basic drugs, cosmetics
(oral, hair and skin care products) and first aid equipment.
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