Eritrea

Översikt

Eritrea is an isolated and repressive state located in the volatile Horn of Africa. The repressive and secretive nature of this de facto one-party state poses political and conflict risks to visitors and investors in the country. Political opposition is not tolerated and President Isaias Afwerki and the ruling People's Front for Democracy and Justice (PFDJ), who have dominated Eritrea since independence, suppress freedom of the press, civil rights, religion and democracy. In July 2018, both Eritrea and Ethiopia formally declared an end of the war over the 1999-2000 border conflict.

Hälsa, sjukdomar och vaccination

Eritrea is home to many potential health threats. Make sure you take seriously the preparation for your health well before you visit the country. It is recommended that travellers visit their personal health physician 4-8 weeks before departure if possible, and if not then as soon as travel to the country is decided upon.

Even though a Yellow Fever vaccination is not required, it is highly recommended. If you plan to stay just within major urban centres the risk is very low. If you are planning to travel elsewhere, it is highly recommended that you obtain a vaccination.

Other vaccinations that are highly recommended are: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Hepatitis B (especially for those who may have intimate contact with the locals). A Polio booster is recommended for anyone who has not had one as an adult.

Malaria is a considerable problem in Eritrea. All travellers should be aware of its risks and take the necessary precautions to avoid this serious illness. Some of the medications that protect against Malaria are: Prophylaxis with Lariam, Malarone, or doxycycline.

Be cautious as to what you eat and drink, as diarrhoea is a common ailment. The best way to avoid this is to follow food and drink precautions. Do not drink tap water unless it has been boiled, filtered, or chemically disinfected. Most high-end restaurants and hotels in Eritrea generally follow good health code practices for food and water and are usually safe. Do not eat fruits or vegetables that are not peeled or cooked and avoid food and beverages containing ice.

Bring your own prescription drugs and preventative medicines with you. Make sure your health insurance covers you for medical expenses abroad. If it doesn’t, supplemental, overseas coverage is encouraged. If illness happens abroad, your medical expenses and possible evacuation can cost tens of thousands of dollars.

Medical care is very limited outside of Eritrea’s major cities. Major illnesses, however, may require an evacuation to a more state-of-the-art medical facility. Be aware that most doctors expect payment in cash, regardless of your health insurance.

Pass

Passports must be valid for at least six months from date of arrival into Eritrea.

Visum

All nationalities must apply for a visa before travelling to Eritrea.

Business travellers require a letter of invitation. Single-entry visas are normally valid for three months and multiple-entry visas (only available for business travel) are valid for three, six or 12 months.

For additional information visit TLCS at http://www.tlcsvisas.com/tlcs/