How to Get Immunized for Nigeria

Nigeria's diversity is its blessing and its curse. With over 250 different cultural groups, Nigeria is colorful and combustible. Located in western Africa, Nigeria is Africa's most populous country. Travelers are advised to avoid the Niger Delta; crime and political unrest are other issues. It is wise to stay current on travel warnings and bulletins. For travel to Nigeria, follow these steps to get immunizations.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Check that all routine vaccinations, including influenza, polio, diphtheria/pertussis/tetanus (DPT), chickenpox and measles/mumps/rubella (MMR), are up-to-date. Polio is still endemic to Nigeria. A family physician can update these immunizations, but go early; vaccines may require 4 to 6 weeks to become effective.

2. Get vaccinated for hepatitis A, hepatitis B, polio, rabies and typhoid as recommended by a physician. These are the immunizations recommended by the U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC) for travel to Nigeria. The CDC keeps a current list of all required and recommended vaccinations for Nigeria on its website.

3. Discuss a meningococcal vaccination with your doctor. This vaccine against meningitis is recommended by the CDC for travelers to Nigeria during the dry season, which is December through June. The western and northern areas of Nigeria are in the "Meningitis Belt," where the risk for contracting the disease is greatest.

4. Consider a yellow fever vaccination. Like all of its neighbors, Nigeria is in the yellow fever zone; travels are at risk for contracting yellow fever. Nigeria requires an International Certificate of Vaccine (ICV) for yellow fever for all those entering from countries where yellow fever is present. Check the CDC website for a list of yellow fever immunization clinics or consult with a medical doctor.

5. Begin taking anti-malaria drugs prior to arrival in Nigeria. All areas of Nigeria are risk areas for malaria. The CDC recommends taking atovaquone/ proguanil, doxycycline or mefloquine for malaria prevention for traveling in Nigeria. Talk to a physician regarding malaria prevention and follow the instructions. Anti-malaria drugs must also be continued after leaving a malaria risk area.

6. Take precautions against insect bites. Many diseases in Nigeria are transmitted through bites from insects. To minimize the risk of insect bites wear protective clothing, such as a hat, long sleeves and long pants; sleep under insect netting, use insect repellent; and remain indoors during peak insect activity times (dawn and dusk).

Tips & Warnings

• Ask a doctor for recommendation of other medications, including over-the-counter medications which would be helpful for travel to Nigeria.
• Obtain the International Certificate of Vaccination (ICV) for yellow fever 10 days before arrival in Nigeria. The CDC website has a list of yellow fever immunization clinics. The ICV is valid for 10 years.
• Always tell the doctor about a suppressed immune system or if pregnant or breastfeeding, as these conditions may alter the immunization procedures.
• Be mindful of security concerns. Visit the U.S. State Department website often for updated travel bulletins and warnings for Nigeria.

Resources

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

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