North Africa

Tunisia

Tunisia is a presidential republic with a developing economy. The capital is Tunis. Tourist facilities are widely available in the main tourist areas.

CRIME: Tunisia has a moderate crime rate in urban areas. Criminals have targeted tourists and business travellers for theft, pick-pocketing, and scams.

MEDICAL FACILITIES: Medical care in Tunisia is available, but it is limited; specialized care or treatment may not be available. Medical staff will most likely be unable to communicate in English. Immediate ambulance service may not be available, especially outside of urban areas. Doctors and hospitals expect immediate cash payment for health care services. Over-the-counter medications are available. However, travellers should bring with them a full supply of medications that are needed on a regular basis.

In general arthropodborne diseases are not a problem. In some areas the following diseases can occur:

• Filariasis
• Leishamaniasis
• Relapsing fever
• Rift Valley fever
• Epidemic typhus
• West Nile fever

Water- or foodborne diseases:

• Amoebiasis
• Diarrhoae
• Hepatitis A
• Typhoid fever
• Brucellosis
• Giardiasis
• Echinococcosis (sporadic)
• Cholera (sporadic)

Other diseases:

• Schistosomiasis (Bilharziasis ) expecially near the river Nile

Vaccination recommendation:

• Hepatitis A or Immune Globulin
• Hepatitis B or Immune Globulin
• Yellow fever - when entering from an endemic region
• Typhoid fever - if staying in remote areas
• Rabies - if risk for contact with animals
• A booster for tetanus/diphtheria - if not covered which indicates not vaccinated within the last 10 years.

Prevent illness by:

• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water.
• Drink only water from cans or boiled water
• Avoid using ice or drinking untreated water
• Wash and/or peel all raw vegetables and fruits before eating.
• Use uncontaminated water to wash all food that is to be eaten raw.
• Avoid eating uncooked foods - Remember: boil it, cook it, peel it, or forget it;
• Avoid swimming in fresh water
• Traffic accidents are the most common cause of injuries so be careful
• Avoid travelling at night and use safety belts when available
• To prevent fungal and parasitic infections, keep feet clean and dry, and do not go barefoot.
• Use latex condoms for protection against sexually transmitted diseases

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Updated 01-May-2003 • İtraveldoctorOnline 2001 • Disclaimer • webmaster

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