Pre-arrival Information

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Immunization and Malaria Prevention

IMMUNIZATIONS

REQUIRED (MANDATORY) IMMUNIZATIONS BEFORE ARRIVAL:

  • Hepatitis B - Series of 3 - required for all crew serving in the Hospital or Engineering.
  • Yellow Fever - Every 10 years

A current Yellow Fever vaccine is required by all crew, guests or visitors for travel to West Africa. The vaccine is valid for 10 years. Please check to make sure the vaccine does not expire during the dates you are to serve with Mercy Ships.

Proof of Yellow Fever vacine (yellow WHO card) must be carried with you every time you travel, for it is required for entry into most African countries. Failure to do so, may result in you being sent home at immigration.

 

 HIGHLY RECOMMENDED IMMUNIZATIONS

Full course of the following (including childhood series and adult booster as required)

  • Diphtheria
  • Pertussis
  • Tetanus
  • Polio
  • HIB (Haemophilus Influenzae type B)
  • MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella - 2 doses
  • Meningitis C
  • BCG (TB immunization) – only in countries where available

Travel Immunizations

  • Meningitis vaccine (ACWY)
  • Typhoid vaccine
  • Hepatitis A vaccine - Series of 2

Notes: Please consult your primary doctor or travel clinic regarding your specific needs and countries where you will be traveling for their recommendations. If you choose not to obtain any of the recommended immunizations, the ship can not provide them once you are onboard, as our supply is limited. Please bring a record, signed by your doctor, of all immunizations and the dates given.

 

MALARIA PREVENTION

Malaria is a common cause of illness, and a potential cause of death, in travelers to West Africa. Prophylaxis medication should be taken to help in the prevention of Malaria.

Crew members should begin taking medication as prescribed before arriving and bring at least a one month supply of malaria prophylaxis with them. Mefloquine (Larium) and Doxycycline are available for refill through the ship-based pharmacy.

If a crew member elects to take a different anti malarial (Malarone), they are responsible to bring enough with them for entire period of service.

Remember, anti-malarial medications must be started before arrival in West Africa and continued after departure. Ask your local doctor for details.

Travelers Who Should Not Take Mefloquine (Larium)

The following travellers should not take mefloquine and should ask their health care provider for a different anti-malarial drug:

  • persons with active depression or a recent history of depression
  • persons with a history of psychosis, generalized anxiety disorder, schizophrenia, or other major psychiatric disorder
  • persons with a history of seizures
  • persons treated for thyroid disorder
  • persons allergic to mefloquine
  • Mefloquine is not recommended for persons with cardiac conduction abnormalities (for example, an irregular heartbeat).

 

We have some concerns with the side effects of mefloquine (Larium) while serving on the ship. If at any time you have any of the following complaints, please see the crew physician as soon as possible:

  • Trouble sleeping/bad dreams/nightmares
  • Unusually depressed
  • Frequent crying
  • Easily agitated
  • Headache/confusion/other mental changes

Other methods of malaria prevention are also very important and should not be forgotten. These include insect repellents (preferably those containing DEET), long sleeves, light colored clothes, and mosquito nets (for those who will be sleeping off the ship).