Botswana is known for its breathtaking landscapes, wildlife-rich national parks, and warm hospitality. From game drives in Chobe National Park to exploring the vast Okavango Delta, it’s a top destination for travelers seeking unforgettable outdoor adventures. Cities like Gaborone and Maun offer modern amenities, but much of the country remains remote and rural.
While Botswana maintains relatively good health infrastructure in urban centers, access to medical care can be limited in remote areas. Travelers should take precautions against common health risks like malaria in certain regions, especially during the rainy season. It’s important to be up to date on routine vaccinations and ensure proper protection against insect bites when exploring the wilderness.
Hepatitis A virus can cause liver disease, and in rare cases, liver failure and death.
Hepatitis BÂ is a viral infection that targets the liver and causes chronic infection and liver cancer.
Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease. Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when traveling internationally.
Rabies is a devastating viral infection transmitted through animal bites.
Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection caused by salmonella from improperly prepared food or contaminated water.
We have made every effort to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the provided information, however, it is not feasible for us to update daily. Please book a virtual consultation with one of our Travel Medicine Professionals for current, personalized advice and answers to any questions you may have.
Guards against the varicella-zoster virus, responsible for chickenpox.
Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (DTaP)
Protects against three different bacterial infections.
Vaccination against seasonal influenza strains is essential.
Provides immunity against all three diseases in one shot.
Essential for guarding against the poliovirus.
Offers protection against a viral infection that causes painful rashes.
The ongoing pandemic necessitates adherence to vaccination guidelines and preventive measures.
Most common illness for travelers, from consuming contaminated food & water
Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. Cover up and use insect repellents to protect against infection.
Malaria is a serious and occasionally fatal disease that is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito.
Medications such as acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol) or ibuprofen (e.g., Advil) can be helpful for managing headaches, muscle pain, or fever.
It’s advisable to carry over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medications like loperamide (e.g., Imodium) to treat mild cases of traveler’s diarrhea. However, it’s important to stay hydrated and seek medical attention if diarrhea persists or worsens.
Antacids like Tums or Pepto-Bismol can provide relief from indigestion or heartburn, which can sometimes occur when trying new foods or experiencing changes in diet during travel.
If you have known allergies, carrying antihistamines like cetirizine (e.g., Reactine) or diphenhydramine (e.g., Benadryl) can help manage allergic reactions to environmental allergens or insect bites.
If you are prone to motion sickness, consider carrying medication like dimenhydrinate (e.g., Gravol) to alleviate symptoms during long journeys or when traveling by car, train, or boat.
It is essential to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF, wear hats, sunglasses, and lightweight, breathable clothing.
Street Address:Â 9th floor, iTowers North, Lot 54368 Gaborone, Botswana
Telephone:Â +267 3160 926 / +267 3160 946
Email:Â canada@consul.co.bw
Website:Â https://www.international.gc.ca/country-pays/botswana/gaborone.aspx?lang=eng
We have made every effort to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the provided information, however, it is not feasible for us to update daily. Please book a virtual consultation with one of our Travel Medicine Professionals for current, personalized advice and answers to any questions you may have.
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