Sao Tome and Principe
São Tomé and Principe may be located off the coasts of Western Central Africa, yet it has a charming Portuguese-Creole atmosphere. The tiny nation is composed of two main volcanic islands surrounding small islets. Here all is about quietude and relaxed vibes, away from tourist crowds. The “take-it-easy” way of life in São Tomé and Principe is contagious and simply delightful! Add stunning volcanic peaks, vast untouched jungles, baobabs forests, lovely fishing villages, impressive colonial vestiges, endless palm-fringed beaches, whales, turtles and exquisite coffee. Don’t look further, São Tomé and Principe is a true paradise on Earth!
HEALTH INFORMATION
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 changes on a daily basis.
For the most current travel health recommendations, please call our clinic as make an appointment with one of our travel health professionals.
SAO TOME AND PRINCIPE – RECOMMENDED VACCINES
| 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- |
| 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. |
| 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 |
| 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. |
| Cholera | Vaccine recommended for persons traveling to an area of active transmission. Most people do not travel to areas of active cholera transmission. |
| 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 |
| Antibiotics Traveler’s Diarrhea | Azithromycin or Suprax |
MEDICAL CARE
The medical infrastructure in Sao Tome and Principe remains precarious. The main medical facility in the archipelago is the Ayres de Menezes Hospital, located on the island of Sao Tome. Outside of the main cities, only small bad equipped health care centers can be found. Serious sicknesses and injuries can not be taken in charge in Sao Tome and Principe and always result in an immediate air evacuation to another country.
Be aware that ambulance services can be limited in Sao Tome and Principe.
Access to pharmaceutical products in the archipelago is very limited. It is thus essential that you bring your own medical supplies in sufficient quantities. Don’t forget to put mosquito repellant, sunscreen and antidiarrheal medicines in your luggage to avoid nasty surprises once in Sao Tome and Principe.
SECURITY ABROAD
Armed robbery and pickpocketing occur, particularly in public areas such as markets, streets or near hotels. Burglaries and home invasions also occur, but are rare. Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times. Avoid deserted beaches …
CANADIAN EMBASSY
Emergency services
In case of emergency, dial:
- police: 2222222
- medical assistance: 221221
- firefighters: 112
