Main health risks for Tunisia

Diseases transmitted by insects or animals

Malaria has been eradicated in 1979 but there are still a few imported cases each year. Moreover, the mosquito responsible for the transmission of the disease remains present in the country; a resurgence of the disease could occur.

Due to the presence of sandflies, there is a risk of leishmaniosis, particularly on the coastal areas. Protect yourself to avoid bites.

A Rift Valley Fever outbreak may occur in the country, but the risk is small for tourist. This virus is transmitted to human by a bite of infected mosquito or by handling carcasses of infected animal or by ingestion of unpasteurized milk of contaminated animals. Usually, those infected either experience no symptoms or develop a mild form of the disease characterized fever, nausea, muscle pain, joint pain and headache. In few cases Rift valley fever can lead to an eye infection, or progress to hemorrhagic fever or brain inflammation.

Be careful to scorpions.

There are cases of animal rabies.

Diseases transmitted by food, water or through the environment

Diarrheic diseases are very frequent among travelers who do not take precautions.

There is a risk of bilharziosis, mainly in the areas of Gabes, El Hamma, Az Zarat and Matmata. Due to this risk, travelers are advised not to bathe in fresh waters (lake, rivers) and should not walk bare-foot.

Protect yourself carefully from the sun and heat to avoid burns and sunstrokes.

Diseases transmitted by contact with infected people

Tuberculosis is frequent in the country.