Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
BEFORE YOU GO
Vaccinations
Don't leave health matters to the last minute: some vaccines don't ensure immunity for two
weeks, so visit a doctor four to eight weeks before departure. Before leaving home, ensure that all your
routine vaccination cover is complete. Ask your doctor for an international certificate of vaccination, listing
all the vaccinations you've received.
First-aid courses
Those heading to very remote areas may like to do a first-aid course, such as those offered
by the American Red Cross and St John's Ambulance. Particularly if you're going trekking, you could take a
wilderness medical training course, such as that offered by the
Royal Geographical Society
(
www.rgs.org
)
.
Medications
Bring them in their original, clearly labelled containers. A signed and dated letter from your
physician describing your medical conditions and medications, including generic names, is also helpful. If
carrying syringes or needles, ensure you have a physician's letter documenting their medical necessity. See
your dentist before a long trip; carry a spare pair of contact lenses and glasses (and take your optical prescrip-
tion with you).
RECOMMENDED VACCINATIONS
Although no specific vaccinations are required for Morocco, America's Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention (CDC) suggests the following as routine:
»
Diphtheria
»
Tetanus
»
Measles
»
Mumps
»
Rubella
»
Polio
The CDC also suggests the following for Morocco:
»
Hepatitis A and B
»
Typhoid
»
Rabies
Insurance
»
Adequate health insurance is vital when travelling to Morocco. The national health service isn't always
great and the few good private hospitals are expensive.
»
You may prefer a policy that pays the medical facility directly rather than you having to pay on the spot and
claim later, although in practice most Moroccan doctors and hospitals insist on payment up front.
