Main health risks for Togo

Diseases transmitted by insects or animals

The whole country is malarial; strains are highly resistant to chloroquine (zone 3). Malaria is one of the highest cause of mortality among children under 5.

After 20 years without a case, an outbreak of yellow fever which occurred in February 2007 made the authorities launch an important immunization campaign.

Togo has been hit by the avian flu outbreak. The H5N1 virus was identified for the first time in June 2007; the focal spot was located in a poulty farm in Sigbehoue, 45km east of Lome.

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.

From December 2008 and February 2009, Togo has experienced a cholera epidemic, in Maritime region (south of the country) during which about 620 people have contracted cholera, of which 7 people died. Cases had been reported in Lome. In order to minimize risks, it is recommended to wash hands thoroughly before meals, and to use uncontaminated water.

In 2009, 6 cases of polio were reported countrywide. Poliomyelitis is an infectious disease transmitted via the oro-fecal route. It may cause paralysis. An efficient vaccine exits against this disease.

The risk of bilharziosis is high, mainly in the north, center and east of the country. Due to the risk of bilharziosis 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

HIV prevalence is significant, amccording to UNAIDS the rate of prevalence among adult (15-49) is 3%. HIV is one of the highest cause of mortality among adult population.

Tuberculosis is frequent in the country.

The Northern part of Togo is located in the meningitidis belt, an area where frequent cases of meningococcal meningitis occur. It 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.