How to Get Immunizations for Angola

Diamonds and oil lead the list of natural resources in Angola. But Angola also boasts of pristine wildlife parks and sandy beaches. After years of political unrest and strife, Angola is at peace. To get immunizations for a trip to Angola, follow these steps.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Visit your doctor 4 to 6 weeks prior to departure to get vaccinations for hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies, polio and typhoid. While you're there make sure you are current on all routine immunizations, including measles/mumps/rubella (MMR), diphtheria/pertussis/tetanus (DPT), polio, influenza and chickenpox. Check regularly the Center for Disease Control (CDC) website for any change in the recommendations and requirements for travel to Angola.

2. Secure an International Certificate of Vaccination (ICV) for yellow fever for at least 10 days before arrival in Angola. Angola is in the yellow fever endemic zone, as are two of its neighbors: Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Congo. The CDC website has a list of yellow fever vaccination clinics.

3. Prevent insect-carried diseases. Besides malaria, dengue, leishmaniasis, filariasis and river blindness (onchocerciasis) occur in Africa. African sleeping sickness (African trypanosomiasis) is epidemic in Angola. Wear long sleeves, long pants and hats when out doors. Use insect repellent and sleep under netting when indoors. Check the CDC website and World Health Organization website for current information on outbreaks and their location.

4. Check with a travel doctor regarding taking malaria preventatives, like atovaquone/proguanil, doxycycline or mefloquine. Chloroquine is not effective in Angola. Take the medication according to doctor's instructions and purchase it in the U.S.

Tips & Warnings

• The U.S. State Department issues warnings, bulletins and alerts for U.S. citizens traveling abroad and a Consular Information Sheet on every country. Check the State Department periodically before traveling for updated information on travel to Angola.
• Talk to the doctor about other medications. Other medications, even those bought over-the-counter, such as medicine for diarrhea, may be helpful.
• Always tell the doctor about a suppressed immune system or if pregnant or breast feeding. This may alter the immunization procedures. Be aware children's immunizations differ from adults; speak with a doctor about children's vaccinations.

Resources

• Visit the CDC website.
• Check the U.S. State Department website.
• Visit the World Health Organization website.