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Health and Safety
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Reviewed by: Editorial Staff
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Yellow fever vaccination and meningitis vaccination are recommended. Anti-malaria pills are also necessary. It is a good idea to carry along insect repellent, sunscreen and other health items since these may be hard to find in some areas. Due to the hot climate in the country, fungal infections are common. An antifungal cream may provide relief.
Leishmaniasis is a group of parasitic diseases transmitted by sandflies and cause skin ulceration and disfigurement, and visceral leishmaniasis affects the internal organs. Avoiding sandfly bites is the best precaution.
Other serious problems in The Gambia are HIV/AIDS and hepatitis B, which can be transmitted through sexual contact.
Thugs are very common in The Gambia and thefts mostly occur in big cities. Travellers are advised to be alert and avoid conversation with strangers. Bribery is rampant in the country. Travellers may have to shell out small ‘gifts’ to officials to get things done.
