Health and Hygiene
In Madagascar, as in all tropical regions in the world, malaria is the most feared disease of travellers. The risk of getting it is very real in Madagascar.
Therefore, we recommend that you consult your doctor before your departure. He will be in the best position to advise you and prescribe antimalarial treatment (preventive prophylaxis).
No vaccination is required but some vaccinations are recommended:
– diphtheria-tetanus-poliomyelitis (DPT) vaccination is recommended including rubella, mumps and measles in children (see below),
– TB vaccination,
– depending on local travel conditions, vaccinations against typhoid fever, viral hepatitis A and B and rabies.
In general, it is preferable to provide medicines for diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, dressings, compresses and disinfectants in case of possible injury.
And do not forget your sunscreen and mosquito repellents. Medical care in hospitals only exists in large cities. We recommend taking out travel insurance that includes repatriation in the event of an emergency, or sending you to La Réunion, Mauritius or South Africa, where you will find better hospitals than in Madagascar.
Finally, do not take any food risks: do not consume raw vegetables or unstamped drinks. In case of stomach upset, intestinal problems or infections, treat yourself immediately.
Safety
Despite all the crises the country is facing, Madagascar is quite safe. Indeed, like all major cities in developing countries, the capital is one of the cities where there are safety problems, but Tana is not the most dangerous either.
However, it is wise to take precautions: take care of the pickpockets, avoid walking at night or walking alone, leave your valuables at the hotel as well as the jewels in the trunk or lock them in your suitcase.
It is prudent not to entrust your luggage to anyone: only your driver, the authorized porters of the airport or the carrier services of the hotel are trusted persons. For night trips, to go to dinner, it is recommended to take a taxi to and from. In the vast majority of cases, the Malagasy will welcome you with sympathy and thoughtfulness.
