Vaccines and health
No vaccinations are required to travel to Cape Verde.
However, as with all trips abroad, it is advisable to keep up to date with the usual immunizations. These include, for example, tetanus, diphtheria, poliomyelitis (polio) and measles.
Valid vaccination against yellow fever is only mandatory if travelers are coming from a yellow fever zone – with the exception of babies under one year old.
Vaccination against hepatitis A is also recommended when traveling to developing and emerging countries, and against hepatitis B if you come into contact with the local population. Your doctor’s office can help you with more information.
In the Praia region (Santiago), the risk of malaria and dengue fever is extremely low at the end of the summer. Here it is important to protect yourself from mosquito bites, for example by wearing long clothes and using an anti-mosquito repellent, although it is overkill to use medication as a prophylaxis.
Diarrheal diseases are common among travelers to developing and emerging countries, and Cape Verde is no exception. It is important not to eat raw food, such as salads, etc. and to avoid ice cream. The fruit should be peeled or washed thoroughly with clean water.
Tap water is not suitable for drinking, but bottled water is generally available everywhere. Make sure the lid is still closed. You should only use drinking water to brush your teeth.
Wash and sanitize your hands, especially before eating. Proven remedies for diarrhea, such as yeast preparations or charcoal tablets, should always be in your luggage.
You can’t do without sunscreen and a sun hat. At these latitudes, the sun’s rays are stronger than we are used to and there is a risk of sunburn even when the sky is cloudy.
Health care with doctors, hospitals and pharmacies is only available to a certain extent in Praia, Santiago, Mindelo and São Vicente. However, the quality does not meet European standards. In more serious cases, it is therefore recommended to return home to Europe.
Important: These tips do not replace a visit to your doctor’s office. We do not assume any responsibility.
