Health |
When travelling to Nigeria, an international vaccination
certificate against yellow fever is required. A Cholera vaccination
certificate is also required if coming from an infected area. As a
precaution against cholera, visitors should drink or use only
boiled or bottled water and avoid ice in drinks. Anti-malaria
prophylaxis and TB inoculation are recommended. At present there is
a high risk of polio infection in northern Nigeria and inoculations
are advised. Visitors should seek the latest medical advice on
inoculations at least three weeks prior to departure.
Private clinics are found even in the smallest towns. In major
cities, private hospitals offer good facilities. As in many
countries, costs for medical services or hospital care must be
shouldered by the traveller. There are government hospitals
throughout the country, but apart from emergencies, the hospitals
are more geared to serving the local population. Individuals
needing specialised treatment for acute illness or severe injury
are usually evacuated to Europe or South Africa. Good,
comprehensive insurance is strongly advised, and should include
evacuation. Pharmacies abound in Nigeria, even in supermarkets and
are open during normal trading hours. Some open even on Sundays in
supermarkets.