Guinea

• Region: Africa
• Population: 12,500,000
• Capital: Conakry
• Languages: French
• Currency: Guinean franc (GNF)

Travelling is an exciting way to meet people and learn about different cultures. But you have to be careful. Travelling can expose you to disease and poor sanitary conditions. In this document, you will find practical information for safe and healthy travel. In a foreign country, just like at home, a little prevention goes a long way.

Before your stay

In this section, you will find the list of the immunizations and screenings recommended for Canadians travelling to the above destination (Guinea). Some of them may also be mandatory. The following vaccinations apply to all travellers. For a personalized protection program adapted to your travelling and health needs, visit a travel medicine clinic. Plan ahead: If you need several vaccines, you may need several weeks to complete the immunization schedule.

Diphtheria, tetanus, poliomyelitis, measles

These vaccines are part of every Canadian's routine immunization schedule. Make sure that you have been vaccinated and that you have received the required booster shots. Specific recommendations apply to poliomyelitis, refer to specialized agencies.

Cholera

Cholera is present in this country. Protection and/or vaccination should be considered for certain travellers.

Yellow fever

A certificate of vaccination may be mandatory for certain travellers. Vaccination is recommended for certain travellers.

Hepatitis A

Vaccination is recommended for most travellers.

Hepatitis B

High prevalence of carriers. Vaccination is recommended for most travellers.

Malaria

Malaria is endemic throughout the country. Prophylaxis is recommended. Mefloquine (Lariam), atovaquone-proguanil (Malarone) or doxycycline (Vibramycin) are drugs of choice.

Meningitis

Vaccination is recommended for all travellers during the dry season, from November to June. Outside the dry season, vaccination is recommended for certain travellers.

Typhoid fever

Most travellers should be vaccinated. Transmission occurs via the fecal-oral route such as the ingestion of contaminated food or water.

During your stay

Once there, you should still be cautious as you could be exposed to other diseases. The presence of diseases that could pose a risk to your health has been reported in the country. The risk is related to the activities you choose to take part in as well as the areas you visit.

Dengue

Dengue fever is present in this country. To prevent infection, mosquito precautions are recommended.

Rabies

Vaccination is recommended for certain groups of travellers only. This includes people who will work in close contact with animals such as veterinarians, wildlife workers, spelunkers and adventure travellers. Vaccination is also recommended for children in special circumstances.

Schistosomiasis

Schistosomiasis is present in certain areas of the country. Avoid contact with fresh water (swimming, fishing, drinking untreated water).

Zika Virus

The virus has been circulating in this country or there are mosquitoes capable of transmitting the virus. Anti-mosquito protection can prevent the acquisition of Zika virus or any other infection transmitted by mosquitoes.

Chikungunya Virus

Mosquito precautions are essential throughout the country.

Healthy Travelling

Prior to your departure, you may want to register for the "Registration of Canadians Abroad" service. This is a free service that allows the Government of Canada to notify you in case of an emergency abroad or a personal emergency at home. The service also enables you to receive important information before or during a natural disaster or civil unrest. For more information, visist the Government of Canada Web site at travel.gc.ca/travellingegistration.

If you have purchased travel insurance, your policy will likely include a 24/7 emergency assistance service to help you locate care and coordinate payment. Be sure to have their phone number with you at all times.

The Canadian Government also has several offices abroad that can provide you with numerous services when in a medical emergency. These services include, but are not limited to:

• Supplying names of local doctors and health facilities
• Visiting you in the hospital and providing basic translation services
• Arranging for medical evacuation if your required treatment is not available in the region (note: costs for this service will not be covered by the government, but may be covered by travel insurance)

If you need help when travelling in Guinea, contact:

Guinea - CONAKRY
Consulate of Canada
Address: Descente Plage Rogbané, Taouyah Corniche, Conakry, Guinea
Postal Address: P.O. Box 1833, Conakry, Guinea
Tel.: 224 60 236022
Tel. after hours: cell 224 64 448117
Fax: 224 60 236022
E-mail: laprade@yahoo.com

Make sure that your passport is valid for the whole length of your trip.
Many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months after your projected return date.

Bon voyage!