If you are planning to visit South Sudan, vaccination for Hepatitis B and A, Typhoid, Yellow Fever, Rabies, COVID-19, Polio, Measles, Mumps, and Rubella is a must.
Most of these diseases are airborne, while others are spread through body contact, food, and water. This is why it is very important to be vaccinated.
Hepatitis
This vaccine is highly recommended since the disease is easily transmitted through contaminated food or water. Two to three doses are given depending on whether it is Hepatitis A or B.
In most cases, both types are prevented because prevention is better than cure.
Typhoid
You cannot always be sure that the water you drink is clean or that roadside snacks and food are not contaminated. That is why you must take this vaccine to avoid complications during your journey.
The best way to prevent infection is by being careful with what you eat and drink, especially in remote areas. Immunity after vaccination lasts for two to three years.
Yellow Fever
This vaccine is required in almost every country, even for children above nine months old, but it is discouraged for pregnant women.
Travelers should take prescription medicine before, during, and after their trip to protect themselves.
Rabies
This vaccine is mostly needed for tourists visiting the wild, especially in remote areas, and for veterinarians who work closely with animals.
Other Diseases to Be Aware Of
There are also some diseases that you should take note of, even though vaccination is not mandatory.
- Leishmaniasis: This disease is transmitted by sand flies. To prevent it, tourists and locals are advised to use insecticide-treated nets. Cases have been reported in the region.
- River Blindness: This is caused by a worm transmitted to humans through repeated bites from black flies. There is no vaccine, but prevention is advised through public health insecticide programs to kill black fly larvae.
- Bilharzia (Schistosomiasis): This disease is caused by a virus found in lakes and rivers. When touring water bodies, avoid swimming unless the water is chlorinated, and always boil water before drinking.
- Trypanosomiasis (Sleeping Sickness): This disease is common in many African countries and is transmitted by the tsetse fly. To prevent infection, mosquito nets and insect repellent are highly recommended.
- Traveler’s Diarrhea: This is caused by consuming contaminated food and water. It can also result from indigestion or overeating unfamiliar food that the body is not used to.
Please get vaccinated before coming to South Sudan to enjoy a safe and comfortable stay.
