What is healthcare in Congo, Democratic Republic of the like?

Facilities and Health Information

Medical facilities are severely limited, and medical materials are in short supply. It is wise to carry properly labeled prescription drugs and other medications; an adequate supply of prescription or over-the-counter drugs in local stores or pharmacies is generally not available. Payment for any medical services is expected in cash, in advance of treatment.

Malaria is common throughout the DRC and malaria prophylaxis is strongly recommended. It is advisable to consult your primary care provider, prior to travel, concerning proper prophylaxis. Outbreaks of polio, cholera, typhoid, yellow fever, the Ebola virus, measles, influenza, and hemorrhagic fever also occur. Tuberculosis is an increasingly serious health concern in the DRC. Travelers are encouraged to obtain tuberculosis testing pre-travel and repeat 8-12 weeks after return. Travelers should take appropriate precautions to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS.

Many insect-borne illnesses are present. Follow insect precautions at all times, including using insect repellant and mosquito nets when possible. A yellow fever vaccine is required for entry into the country. Travelers are encouraged to avoid contact with non-chlorinated fresh water to prevent schistosomiasis.

There is a high risk of traveler’s diarrhea and cholera throughout the country. This can be mitigated by using good judgment when choosing what food to eat and water to drink. When in restaurants, it is best to ask for bottled water and avoid ice.

Drinking Water Source - % of rural population improved

29%

Drinking Water Source - % of total population unimproved

53.5%

Drinking Water Source - % of urban population improved

79.1%

Hospital Bed Density - beds/1,000 population

Physicians Density - physicians/1,000 population

.11

Sanitation Facility Access - % of total population unimproved

68.6%

Sanitation Facility Access - % of urban population improved

29.1%

Sanitation Facility Access - % of rural population improved

32.6%

Infectious Diseases - degree of risk

very high

Animal Contact Disease (s)

rabies

Food or Waterborne Disease (s)

bacterial and protozoal diarrhea, hepatitis A, and typhoid fever

Vectorborne Disease (s)

malaria, dengue fever, and trypanosomiasis-gambiense (African sleeping sickness)

Water contact disease (s)

schistosomiasis

Disability Access In Congo, Democratic Republic of the

Accessibility

While in the DRC, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different from what you find in the United States. The constitution prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities, stipulates that all citizens regardless of their abilities have access to public services, including education, and provides that persons with disabilities are afforded specific protections by the government. The government does not effectively enforce these provisions, and persons with disabilities often find it difficult to obtain employment, education, or government services. The law does not mandate access to buildings or government services for persons with disabilities. In general, the accessibility of facilities in the DRC (including public transportation, public roads, taxis, lodging, restaurants, and other tourist locations) is poor or non-existent, and individuals with disabilities may find it very difficult to get around the country.

Disclaimer

You are responsible for ensuring that you meet and comply with foreign entry requirements, health requirements and that you possess the appropriate travel documents. Information provided is subject to change without notice. One should confirm content prior to traveling from other reliable sources. Information published on this website may contain errors. You travel at your own risk and no warranties or guarantees are provided by us.

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