Senegal is just one of many countries where the risk of contracting malaria is very real but this is an avoidable illness provided adequate precautions are taken before, during and after your holidays in Senegal. You should consult your doctor before booking, who will recommend certain medication especially for malaria prevention. It is also advisable to use an effective insect repellent to avoid being bitten and to continue taking the tablets throughout your stay and after your return to the UK.
No inoculations are compulsory if travelling from the EU although you may be required to show a yellow fever certificate when passing between The Gambia and Senegal.
Children and pregnant women may require special vaccination procedures.
We would also advise that you take with you medicines for dehydration, small ailments, stomach upsets, insect bites and cuts, along with high factor sun creams. All medicines should be carried in hand luggage.
It is important to note that the climate of Senegal guarantees very hot weather during much of the year. The usual precautions such as wearing sun cream and drinking plenty of water apply, ensuring you don't get sunburnt or dehydrated during your holidays in Senegal.
Sexually transmitted diseases (including Aids) are a serious threat to health throughout the world. Please exercise caution when on holiday.
Up-to-date advice is available from the World Health Organisation at www.who.int/ith and the Department of Health leaflet (Ref T7.1) “Health Advice to Travellers” is available from your GP, travel agent or by downloading from www.dh.gov.uk.
Purchase your medication online and help Gambian schools
You can order your malaria medication online direct from Lloyds Pharmacy and they will deliver to your pharmacy the same day, or direct to your home the very next day.
For every order made we will make an 8% donation to our Gambian Community Development Fund.
On the Lloyds Pharmacy website, under Travel clinic in the main menu bar, choose Malaria tablets.
