Republic of Congo Health Care and Vaccinations

Health Care

Medical and dental facilities are generally very limited outside Brazzaville. Health insurance is essential. Medicines are in short supply and it is advised that visitors bring their own medicine, with official labels, into the country.

Food and Drink

All water should be regarded as being potentially contaminated. Water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should have first been boiled or otherwise sterilised. Milk is unpasteurised and should be boiled. Powdered or tinned milk is available and is advised. Avoid dairy products which are likely to have been made from unboiled milk. Only eat well cooked meat and fish. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled.

Other Risks

Bilharzia (schistosomiasis) is present; avoid swimming and paddling in fresh water. Hepatitis B is hyperendemic. Meningococcal A and C have been reported and immunisation is recommended. Rabies is present. For those at high risk, vaccination before arrival should be considered. If you are bitten, seek medical advice without delay. Since December 2006, outbreaks of cholera have been reported in Pointe-Noire, Kouilou and Brazzaville.