Begin the immunization process early. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends being immunized at least 4 to 6 weeks before departure; if this is not possible, you must see a doctor as soon as possible to begin the immunization process. Immunization requirements change often; the CDC website has updated information on recommended and required vaccinations for Sierra Leone. It recommends hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, rabies, and polio. Check the CDC website regularly for any change in recommended or required immunizations.
Have all routine immunizations current. These vaccinations include measles/mumps/rubella (MMR), diphtheria/pertussis/tetanus (DPT), polio, influenza, and chickenpox. A physician can provide any necessary boosters or immunizations.
Take precautions to prevent transmitted by insects. Dengue, leishmaniasis, filariasis and river blindness (onchocerciasis) occur in West Africa. Wear long sleeves, long pants and hats when out doors. Use insect repellent and sleep under netting when indoors. Stay indoors at dawn and dusk; these are the peak insect biting times.
Get a yellow fever vaccination. Obtain an International Certification of Vaccination (ICV) for yellow fever. Sierra Leone is in the yellow fever endemic area and requires an ICV for yellow fever all those entering the country. The certificate must be issued at least 10 days before arrival and is good for 10 years. The CDC has a list of yellow fever immunzaitons clinics.
Discuss malaria preventatives with a doctor. All areas of Sierra Leone are risk areas for malaria. Anti-malarial drugs effective in Sierra Leone are atovaquone/proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine. Chloroquine is not effective in Sierra Leone; it should not be used to prevent malaria in Sierra Leone. The CDC recommends purchasing the malaria medication in the U.S. Take the medication as directed by a physician. Start atovaquone/proguanil or doxycycline 1 to 2 days before arrival in Sierra Leone or other malaria risk area. Start mefloquine should 1 week before arrival. Continue for up to 4 weeks after leaving, based on the doctor's directions.
