Central African Republic


The Central African Republic is a landlocked country in central Africa, just north of the equator, that covers 623,000 sq. km, most of which is a low plateau.

The climate is tropical, with sub-Saharan conditions in the north and equatorial conditions in the south. The single rainy season in the north is May to September. The annual rainfall increases in the south. Uniformly high temperatures throughout the country are generally between 24°C and 28°C.

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Pre-travel Preparation Will Help Protect Your Health While You Are Away

The geography and climate of the Central African Republic can place well-meaning travellers at risk of exposure to disease and illness. Yellow fever is a risk and proof of vaccination may be required on returning to Australia. Consult a travel doctor prior to departure to assess your risks in relation to your medical history and travel plans as some diseases like meningitis have a peak season when the disease is more prevalent in parts of sub-Saharan Africa.


Vaccination Recommendations​/Requirements

Before you travel, make sure that you are up to date on all routine vaccines recommended for you based on your age and underlying risk profile.

These include:

  • Chickenpox (Varicella): either previous disease or vaccination
  • Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
  • Flu (Influenza)
  • Hepatitis B
  • Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR): travellers born during or after 1966 are recommended to have received two vaccinations previously
  • Meningococcal ACWY
  • Polio: per childhood schedule
  • SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19)

Additional vaccines may be required or recommended for this destination. This will vary depending on your medical history, prior immunisations, length of travel, season of travel, itinerary and other relevant factors.


Safe Eating and Drinking Practices

One of the great pleasures of travel is sampling the local cuisine. However, contaminated food and beverages are a common cause of traveller’s diarrhoea and other gastrointestinal illnesses. Safe eating and drinking practices are essential in minimising your risk of contracting traveller’s diarrhoea.

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Insect Avoidance

In many countries, insects carry dangerous diseases. While mosquitoes pose the main risk to travellers, bites from sand flies, ticks, fleas and bedbugs can also transmit diseases. Ensure you are prepared and read up on our insect avoidance tips.

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Warm Climates

Travellers often spend more time outdoors while travelling in warm climates. It is important to make sure you apply sunscreen regularly and stay hydrated, as dehydration and heat stroke often go unrecognised.

Health Risks

The following diseases are known to occur in the area:

Disclaimer: The following information is intended as a guide only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice.

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Book with one of our travel medicine clinics today to get our advice and better protect your health on your next trip.