Chad Health Requirements for Travel - Medical Preparation Guide

Mandatory Health Requirements

Yellow fever vaccination is required for all travellers—no exceptions.
Present the official International Certificate of Vaccination (ICVP) showing yellow fever vaccine given at least 10 days before travel.
Certificates must be official, fully completed, and in WHO format—no photocopies or digital versions accepted.
Entry will be denied without a valid certificate, even for emergencies or diplomats.

Hepatitis A: Strongly recommended for all travellers
Hepatitis B: Recommended for extended stays, medical procedures, or contact with locals
Typhoid: Recommended for those visiting rural areas or eating in local establishments
Meningococcal: May be required during dry season or for certain regions
Polio: Booster if not recently vaccinated, especially for those from affected countries
Routine vaccines: Make sure MMR, DTP, and other standard vaccinations are current

Malaria is present throughout Chad year-round; antimalarial medication is strongly recommended.
Consult a travel medicine specialist for recommended drugs (e.g., atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, mefloquine—chloroquine not effective).
Begin medication before travel, continue during your stay, and finish the course as prescribed.
Use insect repellent (DEET), long sleeves, insecticide-treated nets, and stay in screened/acclimatised accommodation.
Seek immediate medical care for fever or malaria symptoms during or after travel.

Drink only bottled, boiled, or treated water. Do not use tap water for drinking or brushing teeth.
Check bottled water seals and use purification methods if needed.
Eat only food that is thoroughly cooked and served hot. Avoid raw/undercooked meat and seafood.
Be careful with fresh fruits and vegetables—eat only if peeled or cooked.
Avoid unpasteurised dairy and favour well-established restaurants over street vendors.

The best medical facilities are in N'Djamena; rural areas have very limited services.
Private clinics offer better care but require payment up front—have insurance ready.
Serious conditions may require evacuation to a neighbouring country or Europe.
Travel insurance with medical coverage and evacuation is essential.

Bring all required prescription medications for your trip—availability in Chad is limited.
Carry medications in original containers with prescriptions/documentation.
Controlled substances may require special permits—check with Chad consulate before travel.
Include basic first aid and over-the-counter medicines in your travel kit.
Store medicines properly (protect from heat/humidity).

Comprehensive travel health insurance is strongly advised (medical treatment, evacuation, hospitalisation, medications).
Evacuation coverage is crucial due to limited advanced care in Chad—costs can be very high.
Check for coverage of pre-existing conditions and adventure activities if relevant.

Check for current outbreaks (yellow fever, meningitis, cholera, etc.) before travel.
Risks vary by season and region—tailor prevention strategies to your destination and activities.
Report illness during/after travel for public health protection.

Know local emergency numbers, medical contacts, and insurance/emergency procedures.
Carry a medical info card (conditions, allergies, medications, emergency contacts).
Prepare a supply of emergency meds (antibiotics, malaria treatment, pain relievers, etc.).
Review emergency procedures for evacuation or major illness before travel.