Health
Health is something that must be taken seriously, particularly since the medical facilities in the country are weak with overstretched hospitals, underpaid staff and a national lack of capacity. Expatriates or those with access to foreign exchange can avail themselves private clinics in the major towns or can get themselves to South Africa in the case of a medical emergency. It is very important to ensure that you and your family have been immunized appropriately before arrival, preferably stocking up with anti malaria drugs before arrival.
Malawi has one of the highest incidences of HIV/AIDS in Southern Africa. According to the most recent estimates, around 15 % of the population is HIV positive. HIV prevalence is much higher in urban areas. The AIDS pandemic explains the high levels of morbidity among Malawians. It is essential that anyone coming to Malawi become quickly aware of the sensitivities and sensibilities surrounding the disease. Taking the normally recommended precautions, both inside and outside the home, including those to be taken when assisting a bleeding person, must never be overlooked.
The Government of Malawi’s health requirements (following WHO International Sanitary Regulations) should be checked prior to arrival. This can be done either through one’s national health authorities or with the recruiting agency.
Currently required are
Cholera
Yellow fever: Vaccination required for arrivals from infected areas
Currently recommended
Typhoid
Tetanus-Diphtheria
Poliomyelitis
Hepatitis A + B
Meningitis A+C
Rabies
Malaria prophylaxis
Medical Facilities & Evacuation
Medical facilities are extremely inadequate. There are only a few qualified physicians and specialists, and hospitals fall far short of minimum international standards. There is Mzuzu referral hospital in the Northern Region. The Kamuzu Central Hospital in Lilongwe and the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Blantyre are insufficiently equipped and inadequately staffed.
CLINICS Typically Used by Expats
British High Commission Clinic (Tel: 01-772 400/500)
MARS International Clinic situated in Area 43 (Tel: 01-795 018/01-794967)
City Centre Clinic (01-772 154)
ABC Clinic (01-761 670)
The availability of drugs and medical supplies is extremely limited. Pharmacies are stocked with drugs manufactured mostly in South Africa. It is advisable to bring a supply of general antibiotics and patent drugs, particularly any pediatric medications that your children require. Anyone on specific medication should bring an initial supply of their needs and remember to replenish well in time.
Recommended Pharmacies in Lilongwe
Capital Pharmacy, NICO Center, Old Town Tel: 01-754-294)
Malawi Pharmacies Limited (MPL), Central House Arcade (Tel: 01-773 396)
Pharmacare, NICO Center, Old Town (Tel: 01-752 073)
Common Illnesses
Malaria is endemic to the country and must be taken extremely seriously. Doxycycline and Larium are readily available in Malawi. Malarone is not widely available and is very expensive ($5/day).
No prophylactic drugs can offer total protection, so other measures to protect against mosquito bites are advised. These include remaining within well-screened accommodation particularly after sundown, enclosing the bed with mosquito nets while sleeping, and use of mosquito repellents in the evenings. The first line of treatment is Fansidar or Halfan. Cases of Fansidar resistant and quinine resistant malaria are on the increase. It is advisable to consult a doctor as soon as one feels unwell, particularly if feverish with or without headaches. If diagnosed early, malaria can cause little to no damage. However, the condition can quickly become cerebral if not attended to immediately.
The incidence of Bilharzia (schistosomiasis) contamination from Lake Malawi as well as in the rivers is very high. Most expats however swim in the lake, taking precautions to avoid areas where bilharzias may be most common (still water, marshy areas with lots of reeds.) The lakeshore beaches (apart from those exclusive to popular hotels) are undeveloped and snails carrying bilharzias may be more common. For those using the lake regularly it is advisable to take the bilharzias cure once a year or 12 weeks after leaving the potentially infected area. Biltracide (Prozaquantal) is readily available at pharmacies to treat bilharzia.
A high rate of cases of rabies occur among dogs. There are no longer any Government controls and bands of stray dogs are a common sight particularly at night in the urban areas. It is advisable to either be vaccinated before arrival or as soon as you are bitten by an local animal (dog, cat, monkey)
Diarrhea is a common symptom, but most cases are non-infectious, self-limiting, and arise as a result of climatic changes or food irregularities. Though Cholera rarely occurs, it is advisable to boil or drink filtered water and thoroughly cleanse all fruits and vegetables. Measles can be serious, particularly among children. Precaution against Hepatitis A and meningitis is also highly advisable.
Dentists & Opticians
There are a few reliable dentists in Lilongwe, Blantyre, Zomba and Mzuzu. There are opticians in Lilongwe and Blantyre. Prescriptions for glasses can be made up in-country. However, local suppliers have to arrange dental appliances and contact lenses from abroad. These can be subject to long delays and it is recommended to bring extra pairs of prescription glasses and/or contact lenses and lens care products.
Optician in Old Town Mall
Family Dental Clinic – 01 7722 228/01 770 853