Health Requirements for Travelling to Africa

If you are planning a trip to Africa it is important that you consult with your travel agent and medical doctors about possible vaccinations that you might need to take before you leave your country of residence. It is important to consider that many vaccinations need to be taken days or even weeks prior to the day of departure from your country of residence. The health situation in most African countries requires visitors to be up to date with all common childhood vaccines including:

• Hepatitis B
• Diphtheria
• Tetanus
• Measles
• Mumps
• Rubella
• Polio

If children are accompanying you on your journey it is imperative that they’ve had all their necessary shots. These additional vaccinations are highly recommended for travel to Africa:

• Hepatitis A
• Meningococcal Meningitis
• Rabies
• Typhoid

Some African countries will not allow foreigners entry unless they can produce proof that they have met the requirements of local health laws. The most common disease that African countries are concerned about is Yellow Fever. For those taking an overland tour it is especially important to remember to get the Yellow Fever shot before you go and to have evidence with you that you have in fact had the injection to avoid complications at border posts. Other diseases to be aware of when travelling to Africa are Dengue Fever, Malaria, Cholera, Bilharzias, Tuberculosis, and HIV/Aids.

Do not be dissuaded by these facts. If you comply with the health requirements of African countries you are guaranteed a safe and hassle free trip, not to mention, a life-changing experience. Find out more about overland tours in South Africa.

To view Drifters Photo Gallery