How to Get Immunizations for Liberia

The Republic of Liberia is a western African nation with a long history. Founded by American former slaves and free-born blacks, Liberia is one of only two nations in Africa that was never under European domination. Recent civil wars have unsettled the country; Liberia is now trying to stabilize. To get immunizations for a trip to Liberia, follow these steps.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Take anti-malaria drugs bought in the U.S., like atovaquone/ proguanil, doxycycline or mefloquine, prior to departure. Chloroquine is not effective for malaria prevention in Africa. Follow doctor's instructions for taking anti-malaria prescriptions.

2. Obtain vaccinations for hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, rabies, and polio a month to a month and a half prior to travel. Visit the Center for Disease Control (CDC) website has updated information on recommended and required vaccinations for Liberia.

3. Get a yellow fever vaccination. Liberia is in the yellow fever endemic zone, as are all of its neighbors: Sierra Leone, Cote d'Ivoire and Guinea. Liberia requires an International Certificate of Vaccination (ICV) for yellow fever for those 1 year old and older entering the country. The CDC recommends a yellow fever vaccination for those 9 months old or older and an ICV must be obtained at least 10 days before arrival in Liberia.

4. Schedule an appointment with your doctor to make sure you are current on all routine immunizations, like measles/mumps/rubella (MMR), diphtheria/pertussis/tetanus (DPT), polio, influenza and chickenpox.

5. Use insect repellent and sleep under netting when indoors to prevent insect-carried diseases, such as malaria. Wear long sleeves, long pants and hats when out doors. Stay indoors during dawn and dusk; these are the peak biting times.

Tips & Warnings

• The U.S. State Department issues warnings, bulletins and alerts for U.S. citizens traveling abroad. It also provides a Consular Information Sheet on every country with information. Check the State Department website often about travel to Liberia.
• Other medications, even those bought over-the-counter, such as medicine for diarrhea, may be useful when visiting Liberia. Talk to a physician about suggestions for other medications.
• The CDC recommends seeing a medical doctor who specializes in travel medicine. A list of travel medicine clinics appears on the CDC website.
• Always tell the doctor about a suppressed immune system or if pregnant or breast-feeding. This may alter the immunization procedures. Be aware children's immunizations differ from adults; speak with a doctor about children's vaccinations.

Resources

• Visit the CDC website.
• Check the U.S. State Department website.
• Visit the World Health Organization website.