Gabon Neighboring the Republic of Congo, Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea, Gabon is an ideal  haven for adventurers. Lying on the West Coast of Central Africa, Gabon is among the most prosperous countries on the continent and, unlike most of its Sub-Saharan neighbors, enjoys both peace and stability. From the cosmopolitan capital city of Libreville to pristine endless jungles, sandy beaches and gorgeous mountain landscapes, Gabon is incredibly diverse and preserved. Unspoiled savannas packed with wildlife makes the country the best place on Earth to experience a memorable safari, away from the tourist crowds of South and East Africa.

HEALTH INFORMATION

Zika is endemic in Democratic Republic of Congo (Kinshasa), and we believe the risk to travelers is low. Because of the risk of birth defects in babies born to women who were infected with Zika while pregnant, women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should discuss their travel plans with their doctor and, if they decide to travel to Senegal, strictly follow steps to prevent mosquito bites.

We make every effort to ensure that the information posted on our website is up to date and accurate according to the latest public health recommendations; However, it is impossible for us to make updates on a daily basis.

For the most current travel health recommendations, please call our clinic to make an appointment with one of our travel health professionals.

GABON – RECOMMENDED VACCINES

Hepatitis A	Recommended for all travelers.
Hepatitis B	Recommended for all travelers.
Causes, Symptoms & Treatment – Typhoid fever	Recommended for all travelers.
Tetanus – Diphteria – Pertussis Vaccine	Tetanus: In exceptional circumstances (eg, stay in a region where access to health care is limited), for a person aged 18 years or older, 1 dose of DT may be given if 5 years or more has elapsed since the last dose. Otherwise, one booster dose at the age of 50*. Pertussis (Whooping Cough):  1 dose is recommended for pregnant women, for every pregnancy, regardless of immunization history and the interval since the last dose (betwen week 26 and 32). *Only applicable for Quebec.
Measles – Rubella – Mumps	Two doses recommended for all travelers born after 1970, if not previously given.
Cholera	For humanitarian workers and health care providers.
The Yellow Fever Vaccine	A proof of vaccination against yellow fever may be required upon entry in to this country. Some travellers may not be eligible to receive this vaccine. Please enquire with your health care professional regarding your specific details. It is important to note that the vaccine should be administered at least 10 days prior to your departure. For further information, please consult with the World Health Organization (WHO) website: https://www.who.int/ith/ith-country-list.pdf
Flu – Influenza	Seasonal influenza occurs worldwide. The flu season usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, between April and October in the southern hemisphere and year round in the tropics. Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus spread from person to person through coughing and sneezing or by touching infected surfaces. Everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine yearly. Vaccine is recommended 14 days prior to departure.
Routine vaccines (dCaT, Polio, Meningococcal, Shingles, Pneumococcal, Hepatitis B, HPV, MMR & Varicella)	Recommended for all travelers
African Tick Bite Fever	Presence. All travellers should protect themselves against tick bites.
Transmission, Symptoms and Prevention – Rabies	For travelers at high risk of animal bites or being involved in activities with bats, dogs and other mammals. Clients who plan to visit remote areas may consider receiving this vaccine. Important to note the pre-exposure rabies vaccine is administered in 2 doses with one week interval between doses. Post-exposure vaccination is always recommended, even for those previously vaccinated.
Schistosomiasis	Avoid swimming in fresh water.
Turista – Traveler’s Diarrhea (ETEC)	Talk to your health care professional about the risks and precautionary measures to take, as well as the Dukoral® vaccine. Important to note that the Dukoral vaccine is an oral vaccine given in 2 doses, recommended at least 2 weeks prior to departure.
Malaria	Malaria is present in this country. The risk may be region specific. Prophylaxis measures to be discussed with the health care professional.
Dengue Fever, Chikungunya and/or Zika	There are many illnesses that are transmitted via mosquito bites and unfortunately we do not have vaccines to protect us against most of them. It is important to inquire with your healthcare professional regarding the specific risks and the different illnesses presently in circulation.

RECOMMENDED MEDICATIONS

Antimalarials Recommended	Malarone, Doxycycline or Mefloquine
Acetazolamide/Dexaméthasone	Recommended to prevent Acute mountain sickness (AMS).
Antibiotics Traveler’s Diarrhea	Azithromycin or Suprax

MEDICAL CARE

Gabon is regularly facing serious public health care issues. Health services are inadequate due to poor governance, training of health care professionals leading poor sanitary practices. It may be difficult to have access to quality care since there is frequent unavailability of medical equipment and medication. Many private practices and clinics in Gabon offer better care, but they can be very expensive. The Bongolo Hospital, located in Lebamba in the South of the country, is said to be the best hospital in Gabon.

Quality medicines can be very hard to find. Thus, it is strongly advised that you bring your own medication as well as basic medication in case of illness or emergencies.

SECURITY ABROAD

Demonstrations occur. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can lead also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

Read More »

SAN JOSÉ WEATHER

CANADIAN EMBASSY

Emergency services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 177
• medical assistance: 1300, 0174 or 0880 (for SOS Médecins)
• firefighters:
  • in Libreville dial 18 01 74 09 55 or 01 76 15 20
  • in Port Gentil dial 07 63 93 63 or 01 56 27 75