Comoros Healthcare and Money

By | May 9, 2022

Health care

Vaccinations

Vaccination needed receipt required
cholera 1
yellow fever 2 2
Typhoid & Polio Yes
malaria 3
Eat Drink 4

Overview

Medical care cannot be compared to Europe and can be problematic locally in terms of technology, equipment and hygiene. Occasionally there is a lack of European-trained, English- or French-speaking doctors. Adequate health insurance coverage valid worldwide and reliable travel insurance are strongly recommended. An individual first-aid kit should be taken with you and protected according to the temperatures on the way. Check indexdotcom for more information.

Notes vaccinations

[1] A vaccination certificate against cholera is not an entry requirement, but there is a risk of infection on the islands of Grande Comore (districts: Foumbuni, Mbéni, Mitsamiouli, Moroni, Ouzioini) and Anjouan. Since the effectiveness of the vaccination is disputed, it is advisable to seek medical advice in good time before you travel. [2] From January 2020, proof of vaccination against yellow fever and meningococcus ACWY will be mandatory upon entry. [3] There is a high risk of malaria all year round in all parts of the country and in the cities. Consistent insect protection and, if necessary, medicinal prophylaxis are recommended. [4] Nationwide there is an increased risk of infection for various infectious diseases that are transmitted through contaminated food or drinks (e.g. hepatitis A, typhoid fever, bacterial dysentery, amoebic dysentery, lambliasis, worm diseases). Water should generally either be boiled or otherwise sterilized before it is used for drinking, brushing teeth and making ice cubes, or it should be bought packaged. When buying packaged water, you should make sure that the original packaging has not been opened. Milk is not pasteurized and should also be boiled. Only mix dry and canned milk with sterile water. Dairy products made from unboiled milk should be avoided. Meat and fish dishes should only be well cooked and served hot. Eating raw salads and mayonnaise should be avoided. Vegetables should be boiled and fruits should be peeled.

Other risks

Dengue fever, transmitted by mosquitoes, occurs. An effective insect repellent is recommended. Hepatitis A and hepatitis B occur. A hepatitis A vaccination is generally recommended. Vaccination against hepatitis B should be given during longer stays and close contact with the local population, as well as for children and young people in general. HIV/AIDS can be a danger for everyone who takes the risk of infection: sexual contact, unclean syringes or needles and blood transfusions can pose a life-threatening risk.

Money

Currency

1 Comorian franc* = 100 centimes. Currency code: KMF (ISO code). Banknotes are in denominations of 10,000, 5000, 2500, 1000, 500, 100 and 50 KMF. Coins in denominations of 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 KMF. Centimes are not in circulation. [*] The Comorian franc is part of the French currency area and is issued by its own central bank. The Comorian franc is pegged to the euro. The euro is legal tender alongside the Comorian franc. CFA francs are also legal tender.

Credit cards

Credit cards are only accepted in international hotels, some restaurants and international car rental companies. Details from the issuer of the relevant credit card.

ATMs

Bank cards With a credit card and pin number, money can be withdrawn from ATMs in Moroni. The Girocard (formerly ec card) with the Cirrus, Plus or Maestro symbol is accepted worldwide. It can be used at a few ATMs with the Cirrus, Plus, and Maestro symbols in Moroni. However, the functionality of the ATMs is not always given. To be on the safe side, travelers should always have an alternative source of money such as cash. Further information from banks and credit institutes. Attention: Travelers who want to pay with their bank customer card abroad and withdraw money should find out from their bank about the possibility of using their card before starting their journey.

Travelers cheques

Traveller’s checks are no longer accepted in the Comoros.

Bank opening hours

Mon-Thu 08.00-14.00, Fri 08.00-11.00.

Foreign exchange regulations

The import and export of local and foreign currency is unlimited.

Currency Exchange

Foreign currencies can be exchanged at banks in the towns of Grande Comore. Exchange options are very limited on the other islands. Some hotels offer an exchange at worse rates than in the banks. It is advisable to take euros with you in cash.

Currencies

Code Symbol Exchange rates (no guarantee)
KMF 1 EUR = 491.97
1 CHF = 574.64
1 USD = 463.98

Comoros Money