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Health risks in Mauritius

Health risks in Mauritius
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Updated byAnne-Lise Mtyon 30 June 2024

Mauritius is an attractive destination as most visitors (especially EU nationals) do not require any vaccinations prior to moving to Mauritius, and there are no major health concerns.

Insect-borne diseases in Mauritius

In the past, there have been outbreaks of insect-borne diseases like dengue fever and chikungunya. However, the current risk is not significant, with only a few imported cases reported.

Nevertheless, it is strongly advised to take preventive measures against these diseases, such as ensuring that your home is properly sealed to prevent insects from entering. Using insect repellents and wearing long, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing are also recommended to minimize the risk of insect bites.

If you experience symptoms like fever, muscle pain, rash, or severe headaches, it is crucial to consult a health professional immediately for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Vaccinations required for traveling to Mauritius

It is no longer mandatory to have a complete vaccination scheme against COVID-19 or to go through a quarantine period to enter Mauritius. However, if you have tested positive for COVID-19 within 8 days prior to departure, you are not allowed to board a flight to Mauritius.

Vaccination against yellow fever is optional if you come from Europe, North America, Oceania or Asia, but mandatory if you have recently visited an endemic area.

Vaccination against hepatitis A and B is recommended.

Make sure your tetanus and polio vaccinations are up-to-date.

Foreign nationals returning to Mauritius after a stay in a high-risk country are required to present their up-to-date international vaccination booklet.

Risks of allergies in Mauritius

From April to May, one should be wary of sugarcane flowers. During the cane-cutting season, cane fires can also create an allergy to airborne smoke particles.

Mosquitoes in Mauritius

During the summer and especially the wet season, mosquito nets and repellent products are recommended. Preventive treatments can also be used, such as smoking, the use of fresh lemongrass that can be found everywhere in gardens, or even geranium essential oil.

Note that there is no risk of malaria in the country.

We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information. However, if you have noticed any inaccuracies in this article, please let us know in the comments section below.

About

Anne-Lise studied Psychology for 4 years in the UK before finding her way back to Mauritius and being a journalist for 3 years and heading Expat.com's editorial department for 5. She loves politics, books, tea, running, swimming, hiking...

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