Medical information

Medical Insurance

A good medical insurance policy, with an emergency air evacuation facility, is strongly advised, as most medical facilities are poor. This can be obtained at any travel agency.

Medical facilities

There is a public hospital and an emergency room in Inhambane, a private dentist and some pharmacies. The pharmacy at Barbalaza is linked with several SA medical aids.

Malaria

The whole of Mozambique is all year-round a high-risk malaria area. It is essential that you consult your doctor for the most appropriate prophylaxis. Infants and young children (especially those under the age of five years) are particularly at risk of severe malaria disease, as malaria can develop and progress very rapidly. Since anti-malarial drugs may cause side effects, the seriousness of any side effect should always be weighed up against the risk.

It is best to avoid a mosquito bite. This can be done by sleeping under a mosquito net and to apply mosquito repellent. Malaria is one of the most serious tropical diseases in the world. This disease can be fatal, if it is not diagnosed and treated at an early stage. The high-risk malaria time is from October to May, especially during the rainy season in the summer.

Precautionary measures:

  • If possible, remain indoors between dusk and dawn
  • Sleep under a mosquito net
  • Don’t wear dark clothing, especially at night
  • Wear clothing that covers most of the body after dark
  • Use repellent on exposed body parts after dark
  • Burn mosquito coils after dark
  • Avoid marshy areas
  • Protect your ankles; mosquitoes prefer that part of your body. Thick socks are not sufficient – ensure you use repellent

Cholera

Cholera is prominent in many areas in Mozambique, especially in highly populated slum areas found on the outskirts of the bigger towns.

Water

Use water only from clean supplies. Water for drinking purposes can be boiled, or bottled mineral water can be bought. By adding a teaspoon of chlorine or Milton to your water most harmful bacteria and organisms will be killed.

Shellfish

Don’t buy shellfish in areas were diseases such as cholera exist, as the shellfish accumulate the bacteria in their gills through their filtering system.

First aid kit

Take a well-stocked medical kit.

IMPORTANT:

This information is out of the owners’ own experiences. Please consult a professional or medical practitioner for any medical or legal advice.