Main health risks for Guinea

Diseases transmitted by insects or animals

Malaria affects the whole country until 1 200 meters altitude; strains are highly resistant to chloroquine (zone 3). Malaria is the first cause of mortality in Guinea.

Yellow fever is endemic in this country. In January 2010, health officials have confirmed several cases of yellow fever in the Kankan Region (east) near the border with Cote d'Ivoire.

The risk of trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness), occurring all year long, is higher in the south-east of the country and in rural areas. The disease is transmitted by the bite of the tsetse fly. Symptoms begin with fever and headache continues with mental confusions, insomnia during nighttime and daytime slumber. If not treated, the disease can be fatal.

There is a risk of Lassa fever in the country. Lassa fever is a viral hemorrhagic fever hosted by a rodent.

There are cases of animal rabies in the country, which is endemic.

Diseases transmitted by food, water or through the environment

Diarrheal diseases are frequent among travelers who do not take precautions.

In 2011, three polio cases have been recorded in Guinea. Poliomyelitis is an infectious disease transmitted via the oro-fecal route. It may cause paralysis. An efficient vaccine exists against this disease.

Diseases transmitted by contact with infected people

AIDS remains preoccupying since 1.6% of the adult population (15-49) is HIV-positive. According to UNAIDS, there are 85 000 persons living with HIV in Guinea. HIV is regularly associated with an increase in tuberculosis.