Health and formalities

Vaccinations

                              Special Precautions

Diphtheria                 sometimes

Hepatitis A                Yes

Malaria                     sometimes

Rabies                      sometimes

Tetanus                      yes

Typhoid                      yes

Yellow Fever              yes

* A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers over one year of age coming from all countries, except for transit passengers remaining in the airport.

Food and Drink

Mains water is normally heavily chlorinated and, whilst relatively safe, may cause mild abdominal upsets. Bottled water is available and is advised for the first few weeks of the stay. Drinking water outside main cities and towns is likely to be contaminated and sterilisation is considered essential. 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. Local meat, poultry, seafood, fruit and vegetables are generally considered safe to eat.

Other Risks

Hepatitis B and D are highly endemic. American trypanosomiasis (Chagas disease) occurs. There is a slight risk of rabies if in contact with wild animals. For those at high risk, vaccination before arrival should be considered. If you are bitten, seek medical advice without delay. Mosquitos in the area can transmit dengue fever.

Health Care

There are medical facilities in Cayenne, Kourou and St Laurent du Maroni but very few elsewhere. Medical insurance is advisable.


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