You have already booked your safari, obtained your Visa and downloaded your packing list for your African Safari. Now it’s time to think about what vaccinations you will need. Read in for advice and a list of vaccinations needed for a safari in East Africa.
Vaccinations Needed for a Safari in East Africa
Vaccinations for Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda
Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda are three of the most popular tourist destinations in Africa. All three countries offer stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and rich cultures. However, it is important to be aware of the health risks before you travel.
The following vaccinations are recommended for Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda:
- Yellow fever: Yellow fever is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is transmitted by mosquitoes. A yellow fever vaccination is required for all travellers over the age of 9 months who are arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission. If your safari goes from Tanzania to Kenya you will need a Yellow Fever Certificate to enter into Kenya.
- Hepatitis A: Hepatitis A is a liver infection that can be transmitted through contaminated food or water. A hepatitis A vaccination is recommended for all travelers to Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda.
- Hepatitis B: Hepatitis B is a liver infection that can be transmitted through blood or sexual contact. A hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for travelers who are planning to engage in high-risk activities, such as unprotected sex or sharing needles.
- Typhoid fever: Typhoid fever is a serious bacterial infection that can be transmitted through contaminated food or water. A typhoid vaccination is recommended for travelers who are planning to visit areas with poor sanitation.
- Rabies: Rabies is a fatal viral disease that is transmitted through the bite of an infected animal. A rabies vaccination is recommended for travelers who are planning to spend time outdoors, especially in rural areas.
In addition to the required vaccinations, it is also a good idea to get the following vaccinations:
- Diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTP): DTP is a vaccine that protects against three serious diseases: diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis.
- Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR): MMR is a vaccine that protects against three childhood diseases: measles, mumps, and rubella.
- Polio: Polio is a serious disease that can cause paralysis, a polio vaccination is recommended for all travelers.
It is also important to take malaria prevention measures when traveling to Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda. Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease that can be fatal. There are a number of ways to prevent malaria, including taking antimalarial medication, using insect repellent, and sleeping under a mosquito net.
If you are planning a trip to Tanzania, Kenya, or Uganda, it is important to see a travel health specialist to discuss your vaccination needs. The advice given in this blog is just advice and should not be used as a substitute for speaking to a qualified health specialist. A travel health specialist can help you make sure that you are up-to-date on all of the required and recommended vaccinations.
For more information follow the links below to the country you will be visiting:
Vaccinations for Tanzania, including Zanzibar
Are you still, planning your safari? Read this blog post to help you with the planning process or answer a few simple questions in the safari planning quiz below and I will create a custom safari itinerary based on your answers.
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