All water should be regarded as being potentially contaminated. Water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should have first been boiled or otherwise sterilised. Milk is unpasteurised and should be boiled. Powdered or tinned milk is available and is advised. Avoid dairy products which are likely to have been made from unboiled milk. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish, preferably served hot. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled.

Vaccinations against tuberculosis, cholera and hepatitis B are sometimes recommended. Avoid swimming and paddling in fresh water.

The two main hospitals are in Niamey and Zinder. Only the main centres have reasonable medical facilities, but even these are poor. Personal medicines should be brought in as these can be difficult or impossible to obtain in Niger. Full health insurance is essential and should include cover for emergency repatriation.