Health, vaccinations and medical care in Namibia

Check that your insurer is accepted, before you fly

• Some travel insurance policies are not recognised by some Namibian hospitals. That is the FCDO's own wording, and it is the sharpest health fact about this country.
• Private hospitals may insist on payment before starting treatment even with comprehensive cover, and may expect you to reclaim from the insurer later. Have a card with a real limit on it, or accessible funds.
• Ask your insurer specifically whether its product is accepted in Namibia, and arrange alternative cover if it is not.
• Contact the insurer as soon as you are referred to a facility.

Where the care is

• There are good medical facilities in Windhoek. Availability of most services is restricted to the main towns.
• Emergencies in remote areas cost more, because getting the patient to a main town is the expensive part. Lodges and hosts can usually organise it.
• The insurance needs to cover medical evacuation, which on a Namibian itinerary is a realistic call rather than a box to tick.

Ambulances

• Call 211111 in Windhoek and 10111 everywhere else, and ask for an ambulance.

Malaria and the shape of the risk

• Namibia is mainly malaria-free, but the north and north-east are not. Kaokoveld, Etosha, the Otavi Mountains and the east are medium risk, and the risk is highest in the rainy season from November to April.
• The coast, the Namib Desert and the south are regarded as near risk-free.
• The area between Otjiwarongo and Windhoek is low risk, which still does not mean skipping repellent.
• Take advice on prophylaxis at least 6 to 8 weeks before you travel, and protect against bites at dusk, at night and in the early morning whatever you decide about tablets.

The other things worth knowing

• HIV prevalence is among the highest in the world, at around 11.8% of adults compared with about 0.2% in the UK. Take normal precautions.
• Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Namibia, which surprises people who came for the desert.
• The heat and dryness cause dehydration and skin problems. Carry a good supply of drinkable water in the vehicle, always.
• Tap water is generally excellent in towns, though the taste varies. Water from stagnant sources should be boiled or treated.
• Rabies is present and schistosomiasis is a risk in fresh water, so avoid swimming in lakes, rivers and ponds.

Vaccines and certificates

• Check the recommendations at least 8 weeks ahead.
• A yellow fever certificate is an entry requirement if you are coming from a transmission-risk country. It only becomes valid 10 days after the vaccination.
• Polio boosters are recommended, and routine vaccinations should be up to date.