U.S. Embassy in Guinea

Please note: The Department of State assumes no responsibility or liability for the professional ability or reputation of, or the quality of services provided by, the entities or individuals whose names appear on the following lists. Inclusion on this list is in no way an endorsement by the Department or the U.S. government. Names are listed alphabetically, and the order in which they appear has no other significance. The information on the list is provided directly by the local service providers; the Department is not in a position to vouch for such information.

Guinea has experienced a Cholera epidemic, an Ebola epidemic and an increase in cases of Typhoid.  For travelers or temporary residents, malaria prophylaxis is highly recommended.

Immunizations

Yellow fever vaccine is required for entry into the country of Guinea and must be renewed every 10 years. Quadrivalent Meningococcal vaccine is required every 3 years, typhoid immunization, oral or injectable, and Hepatitis A vaccinations are highly recommended.  The rabies vaccine is also recommended due to the prevalence of rabies in West Africa.

Malaria

Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for travelers and temporary residents, starting two weeks before arrival in Guinea. Since Guinea is a chloroquine resistant malaria region, the most effective medications are mefloquine (Lariam) 250 mg once a week, atovaquone-proguinal 250/100mg (Malarone) daily or doxycycline 100 mg daily. Please consult a clinician or a travel medicine clinic for specific information. To avoid mosquito bites, use insect repellants (30% DEET is recommended), wear long pants/sleeves, sleep under a mosquito net, and wear light colors.

Water

Tap water is only safe to drink if distilled or boiled and filtered.  Bottled water is widely available.

Food

All raw fruits and vegetables to be eaten unpeeled should be first disinfected in a chlorine bleach solution of one capful per gallon of distilled water, soaked for 20 minutes, and then rinsed in distilled water. Only pasteurized dairy products should be bought locally.

Inspect meat and fish for freshness and wash well before eating.

Medicines

American prescription and over-the-counter medications are not generally available in Guinea. Plan to bring with you (in hand baggage) enough for your needs, including contraceptive supplies, vitamins, and pain relievers. Local pharmacies with good quality control include Pharmacie Manquepas +224-628-218-980 and Pharmacie Nouni  +224-622-491-049. 

First Aid Kit

Your travel first aid kit should include:

• Oral re-hydration salts
• Anti-fungal powder
• Cough syrup
• Cold remedies
• Nonprescription painkillers
• Pepto-Bismol
• Lubricant eye drops
• Skin moisturizers
• Antihistamines
• Hydrocortisone cream
• Antiseptic
• Throat lozenges
• Vaginitis remedies
• Anti-inflammatories
• Contraceptive supplies
• Sunscreen
• Imodium
• Insect repellents

If you are traveling with children, bring their vitamins and syrup of ipecac. Supplies to include are:

• Scissors
• Forceps
• Latex gloves
• Soap
• Band-Aids
• Gauze
• Tape
• Thermometer
• Sling
• Ace bandage
• Reusable hot/cold packs
• Water disinfecting tablets

As anywhere in the world, it is essential to care for yourself by exercising and resting on a regular basis, ensuring good nutrition, and dealing with stress in a constructive fashion. Smoking and alcohol use should be cut to a minimum. Culture shock and symptoms caused by excess stress are common. Consider bringing with you those hobbies or possessions that help maintain good mental and physical health.

Medical Evacuation Companies

Medical evacuations can be very costly. Costs vary according to the final destination in the U.S., whether a plane is sent out from the United States or a commercial carrier is used, how many medical escorts are needed, etc.  It is advised to have medical insurance that covers these costs.The company listed below is based in the United States:

• Angel MedFlight Worldwide Air Ambulance, Tel: 1-877-264-3570; International calls: 1-480-634-8017

Additional Resources

• Local Clinics & Hospitals/Health Providers (PDF 118 KB)

Medical Alerts