Surinam

Översikt

Suriname’s main security risks include a high incidence of street crime, corruption and pervasive issues with drug trafficking. Tensions remain following a civil conflict which came to an end in 1992, with the main actors from the conflict still involved in politics. Border disputes exist with neighbouring French Guiana, Guyana and Brazil, although the likelihood of the disputes escalating into armed conflict remains low. Criminal groups operate extensively in the country, which is used as a transit location between drug-producing and drug-consuming countries. Road conditions are poor, with frequent accidents reported, while public minivans are to be avoided. Flooding presents a significant threat, and outbreaks of dengue fever in the interior of the country are a regular occurrence.

Hälsa, sjukdomar och vaccination

Travellers are advised to consult a travel health specialist or general practitioner (GP) to obtain the latest information with regards to what vaccinations are recommended about 4-8 weeks prior to departing Suriname. The following vaccinations are recommended: Hepatitis A, Typhoid (for people who may eat or drink outside the major hotels), Hepatitis B (if longer than 6 months) Rabies, Measles (if not previously given) and Tetanus-Diphtheria.

Certificate of yellow fever is required if arriving within five days from, or transiting in, an infected area.

The use of anti-malaria medicine (prophylaxis) is recommended for all areas in Suriname, except the Paramaribo and the coastal districts.

Travellers’ Diarrhoea is the most common travel-related medical problem. Take all the necessary precautions when drinking water or eating food within the country. Only drink water from sealed bottles. It is advisable to bring anti-diarrheal medication and O.R.S. to prevent dehydration.

The following diseases may be present in Suriname: Dengue, Filariasis, Leishmaniasis, Onchocerciasis, and American Trypanosomiasis (Chagas disease). These diseases are all carried by insects that are present in the region.

Medical facilities are extremely limited in the Suriname. The sanitation is poor and the majority of doctors and hospitals expect payment in advance. In the situation of serious medical problems it is advisable to leave the country for better medical facilities.

Pass

Visitors to Suriname must be travelling on a passport that is valid for at least six months from the date of entry into the country.

Visum

Some nationalities are required to obtain a visa prior to departure to the country. Applications can be made online. Travellers are advised to consult the Surinamese diplomatic representation in their respective country.