Health, Safety & Vaccinations for Ivory Coast
Stay healthy and safe during your travels with this essential health advice.
When planning your trip to Ivory Coast, safeguarding your health is an essential part of preparation. Staying up to date on recommended vaccinations, taking preventive measures against common illnesses, and practicing caution with food and water will help make your experience safe and enjoyable. Before you travel, be sure to review the requirements for a Tourist Visa to ensure a smooth journey.
Vaccinations: Mandatory & Recommended
Mandatory: Yellow Fever Vaccination
The government of Ivory Coast requires proof of Yellow Fever vaccination for all travellers over 9 months of age arriving from any country.
- You must be vaccinated at least 10 days before you travel.
- You will be required to present your valid International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP), commonly known as the "Yellow Card," to immigration officials upon arrival.
- Failure to provide this certificate may result in being denied entry into the country.
- A single dose of the Yellow Fever vaccine provides lifelong protection.
Recommended Vaccinations
In addition to Yellow Fever, your doctor will likely recommend the following vaccinations to protect against diseases common in the region:
- Tetanus: Ensure your routine tetanus booster is up to date.
- Hepatitis A & B: Transmitted through contaminated food/water and bodily fluids, respectively.
- Typhoid: A bacterial infection spread through contaminated food and water.
- Polio: Ensure your routine polio vaccination is up to date.
- Rabies: Recommended for travellers who may be in close contact with animals, such as veterinarians or those visiting rural areas for extended periods.
Other Important Health Precautions
Malaria Prevention
There is a high risk of malaria throughout Ivory Coast, including in Abidjan. It is a serious disease transmitted by mosquitoes, especially active from dusk till dawn.
Follow the ABCD of malaria prevention:
- Awareness: Understand the risk, symptoms, and incubation period.
- Bite Prevention: Use insect repellent containing DEET, wear long-sleeved clothing and trousers in the evenings, and sleep in air-conditioned rooms or under a mosquito net.
- Chemoprophylaxis: Your doctor will prescribe antimalarial tablets (chemoprophylaxis) suitable for you. It is crucial to take the full course as directed, even after you leave the country.
- Diagnosis: Seek immediate medical attention if you develop a fever or flu-like symptoms during or after your trip.
Food & Water Safety
Stomach upsets are a common issue for travellers. Minimise your risk by following these simple rules:
- Drink only bottled, boiled, or purified water. Avoid tap water and ice in drinks.
- Eat food that is freshly cooked and served hot.
- Avoid raw or undercooked meat and fish.
- Be cautious with salads and uncooked vegetables unless you are sure they have been washed in safe water.
- Peel all fruit yourself or eat fruit with a thick, unbroken skin.
- Be selective with street food; choose vendors that are busy and have a high turnover of freshly cooked food.
Don't Forget Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel and health insurance is essential for any trip to Ivory Coast. Ensure your policy covers:
- Emergency medical treatment and hospitalisation.
- Emergency medical evacuation to a country with more advanced facilities, which can be extremely expensive.
- Theft of belongings and trip cancellation.
Travel with peace of mind. Get your health in order, secure your insurance, and apply for your visa well in advance.