Always remember to check the expiration dates on all medications, whether they are from home or abroad. Safety Information Travelers Diarrhea. Food and waterborne diseases are the number one cause of illness in travelers. Travelers diarrhea can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites, which are found throughout the region and can contaminate food or water. Make sure your food and drinking water are safe.
Malaria is a preventable infection that can be fatal if left untreated.
Prevent infection by taking prescription antimalarial drugs and protecting yourself against mosquito bites. Most travelers to malaria risk areas in this region should take mefloquine to prevent malaria. You can be infected with malaria in all areas of this region except the cities of Addis Ababa, Ismara, and Nairobi, the islands of Reunion and Seychelles, and in highland areas above 2,500 meters. A certificate of yellow fever vaccine may be required for entry into certain of these countries. Protecting yourself against insect bites will help to prevent these diseases.