Main health risks for Niger

Diseases transmitted by insects or animals

Malaria affects the whole urban area of Niamey, the southern half of the country and the area of Agadez. Strains are mildly resistant to chloroquine (zone 2). Malaria, is by far, the highest cause of mortality in Niger.

Yellow fever is endemic in the country.

There are cases of animal rabies in the country.

Diseases transmitted by food, water or through the environment

Diarrheic diseases are frequent among travelers who do not take precautions. 83% of the population is at risk for cholera. An outbreak can occur at any time. From January to mid-August 2011, local health authorities reported 1,008 cholera cases (26 deaths).

Gastroenteritis and hepatitis A are endemic in the country.

In order to minimize risks, it is recommended to wash hands thoroughly before meals, and to use uncontaminated water.

In 2010, two cases of polio were reported countrywide. In 2011, four cases have been identified in Niger. Poliomyelitis is an infectious disease transmitted via the oro-fecal route. It may cause paralysis. An efficient vaccine exists against this disease.

Due to the risk of schistosomiasis and other parasitic infestations, travelers are advised not to bathe in fresh waters (lake, rivers) and should not walk bare-foot.

Diseases transmitted by contact with infected people

Niger is regularly affected by outbreaks of meningitis during the dry and hot season,from February to July. Meningococcal meningitis is a disease characterized by sudden fever, intense headache, nausea, vomiting, stiff neck and a rash. The fatality rate is usually 5-15 percent. Transmission occurs by inhaling the bacteria, direct mouth-to-mouth contact with an infected person or contamination by an infected person's nasal secretions.

Tuberculosis is frequent in the country.