Travel Vaccines and Advice for Angola

• Typhoid – Typhoid, a bacterial infection, is primarily transmitted through contaminated food, water, or direct contact with infected people. Vaccination is a key preventive measure, recommended for travellers to endemic regions and those at risk due to occupation.
• Hepatitis A – Be sure to protect yourself from hepatitis A, a contagious liver infection caused by HAV, through vaccination. The virus spreads through contaminated food, water, and close contact. Along with vaccination, maintaining proper hygiene and avoiding undercooked shellfish are essential for prevention.
• Yellow Fever – Yellow fever is a viral disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes, mainly Aedes aegypti and Haemagogus species. Vaccination is a key preventive measure, and the vaccine is highly effective.
• Rabies – Rabies, a deadly viral infection, spreads through the saliva of infected animals via bites or scratches. Timely vaccination is crucial to prevent the disease in humans. Pre-exposure vaccination is recommended for high-risk individuals, while post-exposure prophylaxis is essential after potential exposure.
• Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B, a liver infection transmitted through infected fluids, can be prevented through safe practices and the hepatitis B vaccine. The vaccine prompts the immune system to produce antibodies, offering robust and long-lasting protection against the virus.
• Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are highly contagious viral infections. Vaccination is the cornerstone of prevention. The MMR vaccine, with its two-dose regimen, ensures strong immunity, reducing the risk of disease transmission and protecting both individuals and the broader population from these potentially severe illnesses.

Yellow fever is present throughout Angola. All travellers over nine months should receive the yellow fever vaccine before travelling to the country. Proof of vaccination may be required for travel from Angola to other regions as well.

Malaria is present in all regions of Angola. Travellers are advised to take antimalarials to protect themselves from infection. Atovaquone, doxycycline, mefloquine and tafenoquine are recommended for travellers to the region. Malaria parasites in Angola are resistant to chloroquine. Speak with your travel health specialist to identify which antimalarial is best for your trip and medical history.

Protect yourself from bug bites by wearing long clothing and using PHAC-recommended repellents like DEET or picaridin. Avoid bug-prone areas during peak hours to reduce the risk.

Safeguard your health while abroad by researching local cuisine, avoiding tap water, and practicing hand hygiene. Choose reputable eateries, be cautious with ice, and drink in moderation. A travellers’ diarrhea kit is recommended for travel to all regions throughout the world.

Altitude sickness, or acute mountain sickness (AMS), is caused by insufficient oxygen at high elevations. Symptoms include headaches and nausea. To avoid AMS, ascend gradually, stay hydrated, and consider medications like acetazolamide. If AMS strikes, descend to lower altitudes promptly, rest, and seek medical help if symptoms persist.

• African Sleeping Sickness – In Africa, African Trypanosomiasis can be prevented through wearing long-sleeved clothing, and using insect repellent to reduce the risk of tsetse fly bites, which transmit the parasites causing the disease.
• African Tick-Bite Fever – Protect against African Tick-Bite Fever (ATBF) by wearing long sleeves, applying insect repellent, and regularly inspecting for ticks. Consult healthcare experts for guidance when planning trips to affected regions.
• Dengue – Dengue fever, caused by Aedes mosquito bites, poses a significant global health risk. Preventative measures, including avoiding mosquito bites, are crucial due to the lack of direct antiviral treatments.
• Marburg Hemorrhagic Fever – As researchers work on a Marburg Hemorrhagic Fever vaccine, prevention remains critical. MHF transmission occurs via contact with infected animals or people, highlighting the importance of protective measures. Safe burial practices, healthcare infection control, and public education play vital roles in mitigating MHF risks.
• Schistosomiasis – Schistosomiasis, a parasitic disease transmitted through contaminated water, poses a health risk. Prevention strategies include avoiding freshwater activities and wearing protective clothing. Prompt medical attention is necessary if symptoms like fever or abdominal pain occur.
• Zika – Zika, transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, can lead to birth defects during pregnancy. Prevention includes mosquito bite avoidance, safe sex, and travel precautions.