Gambia - Health

The Gambia Health for Visitors

Medical facilities in The Gambia are very limited and the cost of medical evacuation can be very high.  There are several government hospitals and clinics as well as those operated by private practitioners. Most doctors and hospitals will ask for up-front cash payment for medical care.

Travel insurance is highly advised.

Vaccine-Preventable Diseases:

Aside from the usual routine vaccine, the CDC recommends vaccinations against Hepatitis A and B, Measles, and Typhoid.

Meningococcal vaccination is recommended for visitors traveling to areas of The Gambia that are part of the meningitis belt during the dry season.

Poliovirus has been identified in the past year in this country. Make sure you are up to date on your polio vaccines.

Rabies is prevalent in The Gambia, and vaccines may only be available in larger suburban or urban medical facilities if exposure occurs.

A yellow fever vaccination is required for visitors arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission.  The last outbreak of yellow fever in the Gambia was in 1978.

For further details, visit the webpage of The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Food and Water Concerns:

Cholera may be a risk. Water should be treated.

There is a risk of Schistosomiasis in this country.

Cruisers, however, have reported feeling very safe with food and water.

Mosquito-borne Diseases:

Malaria is present in all areas of The Gambia throughout the year. Visitors are advised to take prescription medicine to prevent malaria.

Within the last five years, there has been evidence of chikungunya virus transmission in The Gambia. Consider getting vaccinated against chikungunya.

The risk of Zika infection in this country cannot be ruled out because it shares borders with other countries where the Zika-carrying mosquito is known to be at risk.

Because of the pregnancy risks, travelers should consult the CDC Travelers’ Health website for the most current recommendations for Zika.

Prevention:

• Use a repellent containing 20%-30% DEET or 20% Picaridin on exposed skin. Re-apply according to the manufacturer’s directions.
• Wear neutral-colored (beige, light grey) long-sleeved clothing.
• Pre-soak or spray the outer layer of clothing and gear with permethrin.
• Ensure that the hatch and window screens work properly.

Prescription Drugs:

Some prescription and over-the-counter medicines like those containing codeine or diazepam are banned under The Gambia’s drugs laws.

When bringing prescription medication to The Gambia, ensure to keep the prescription and items in their original packaging.

Visitors are also advised to bring sunscreen, anti-fungal creams, and disinfectants unobtainable in certain parts of the country.

See more details at the Gambia Tourism Board website.

Emergency Numbers:
See Emergencies.

Last updated:  September 2024