For more information, consult the Health appendix. Avoid swimming and paddling in fresh water. Swimming pools which are well-chlorinated and maintained are safe. Hepatitis B is hyperendemic and hepatitis A and E are widespread. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.
Health insurance is essential.
Most doctors work in the public service and have their private clinic in the afternoon and evening. There are few specialists. Several foreign aid agencies have their own doctor and medical facilities, including the French Mission and the Swedish Embassy. There is also a UN clinic. All these clinics will receive visitors in an emergency, but none of them have surgical facilities.