Rift Valley fever (RVF) is an acute, fever-causing viral disease that usually affects domesticated animals (such as cattle and sheep), but can also infect and cause illness in humans. The majority of human infections are caused by direct or indirect contact with the blood or organs of infected animals.
Travel Vaccinations for Lesotho
Vaccines To Consider When Visiting Lesotho
A consultation will be completed with one of our specialist travel health nurses to assess your individual travel plans and health background before making recommendations, which can then be administered during the same appointment.
There is a risk of Malaria in Lesotho. London Travel Clinic offers a range of antimalarials to keep you protected
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Destination Information for Lesotho
Hidden away in Southern Africa, the Kingdom of Letho is a mountainous country. It is also known as the ‘Kingdom of the Sky’ and the ‘Switzerland of Africa.’ These names are thanks to the dramatic scenery of the Maloti Mountains. The rugged landscape and remote location of Letho means that most of the country can only be reached on foot, on horseback, or by light aircraft. Letho has the highest low point of any country in the world, and is the only country in the world to be entirely above 1,000m in altitude.
The capital of Lesotho is Maseru, on the north-west border with South Africa. Here there are some western-style shops, where you can stock up on supplies before venturing into the more remote areas of the country. To the north is the town of Hlotse or Leribe, another good stocking up point and home to many regional markets filled with fabulous craft stalls.
While the geographical features of Letho make it difficult to reach, they also make for a top adventure destination. Visitors here can try their hand at rock climbing, pony trekking, abseiling, hiking, mountain biking and skiing. Hiking fans should make a point of visiting the Bokong Nature Reserve, where in winter the Lepaquoa waterfall freezes into a solid column! The remote Sehlabathebe National Park is another mountainous reserve great for wildlife spotting, waterfalls and ancient rock paintings.
Infections and Outbreaks frequently change from country to country and by attending our clinics you will be given the most up to date clinical and safety advice from our team of specialists. Our advice to you often includes aspects such as:
Additional Health Risks Information for Lesotho
Lesotho is generally considered a safe country to visit, and most trips here are trouble-free. Petty crime can occur in the capital Maseru, and tourists are most likely to be targeted by muggers or carjackers. Take particular care in the city, especially during peak holiday season. Use pre-booked taxis whenever you can, as there is no public transport available, and walking after dark is not advisable. If you are driving or hiring a car, keep doors locked and windows closed. The roads are not well-maintained and are often poorly lit. Be aware of animals on the road in rural areas.
Medical facilities in Lesotho are basic. If you require anything other than routine treatment, or are seriously ill or injured you may need medical evacuation, so ensure that your travel insurance will cover this, and that you have access to funds to cover initial costs. Bloemfontein, South Africa, is about 90 minutes by car from Maseru, and this is where expats usually go for medical care. A Yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travellers aged over 9 months arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission and for travellers having transited more than 12 hours through the airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. Malaria is not normally present.
