Main health risks for Zimbabwe

Diseases transmitted by insects or animals

All the areas of low or moderate altitude (below 1200 meters) are malarial, particularly the Low Veld region (south-east) and the national parks area (Lake Kariba, Victoria Falls, Hwange). Strains are highly resistant to chloroquine (zone 3).

There is a limited presence of tse-tse flies on the touristic site of Mana Pools. The risk of catching sleeping sickness remains very low. Symptoms begin with fever and headache continues with mental confusions, insomnia during nighttime and daytime slumber. If not treated, the disease can be fatal.

Plague has been identified in the country. But risk for travelers is small.

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.

The risk of cholera exists during the rainy season, from November to April, especially when precipitations are abundant. In order to minimize risks, it is recommended to wash hands thoroughly before meals and to use uncontaminated water. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported 1,000 cases of cholera (21 deaths) in 2010. In 2008, the country was hit by the worst-ever outbreak of cholera, which killed 4,000 people.

On December 25th, health authorities reported one deadly case of anthrax. In order to minimize risks, do not eat bush meat as well as meat from suspicious sources.

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

HIV is by far, the highest cause of mortality among adults and children. Zimbabwe is facing a generalized HIV epidemic, with an HIV prevalence in the adult population (15-49 years) of about 15.3% (UNAIDS). Each day an estimated 564 adults and children become infected with HIV.

Cases of Marburg fever occur regularly. The disease is transmitted to human by contact with contaminated body fluids. Be aware that caves and mines shelter bats, which are a reservoir for the Marburg virus. The virus infects both human and nonhuman primates.