Main health risks for Eritrea

Diseases transmitted by insects or animals

Malaria is endemic in all areas below 2 200 meters of altitude, except in the Sahel. Southern Eritrea and the Samhar region are particularly at risk; there is no risk in Asmara. Strains are highly resistant to chloroquine (zone 3).

Dengue is endemic in all areas below 1500 meters and on the shores of the Red Sea.

There are cases of animal rabies in the country but they remain rare. Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne disease. Symptoms are fever, headache, rash, muscle and joint pain, nausea and, in severe cases, hemorrhagic manifestations.

Diseases transmitted by food, water or through the environment

Diarrheal diseases are very frequent among tourists who are not accustomed to local food or who do not take precautions.

Diseases transmitted by contact with infected people

The Gash Barka region is located in the meningitis belt, an area where outbreaks of meningococcal meningitis occur regularly.

According to UNAIDS, the prevalence of HIV is around 3.1%. HIV is one of the highest cause of mortality in Eritrea. Number of people living with HIV increase.