How to Get Immunizations for Namibia

Namibia, Africa's youngest country, gained independence from South Africa in 1990. Located on the Atlantic coast of southern Africa, it is home to over 1.8 million people, although population density is very low. To get immunizations for traveling to Namibia, follow these steps.

Instructions

1. Discuss with a doctor malaria preventives for Namibia. The Namibian areas of the Caprivi Stripare, Kunene, Ohangwena, Okavango, Omaheke, Omusati, Oshana, Oshikoto and Otjozondjupa are at-risk for malaria exposure. Start mefloquine a week before or atovaquone/proguanil or doxycycline 1 to 2 days before arriving in a malaria risk area. Continue the medications for up to 4 weeks after leaving a malaria risk area. Chloroquine is not effective for malaria prevention in Namibia. Buy anti-malaria drugs according to the U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC)recommendations.

2. Be current on all routine immunizations, such as diphtheria/pertussis/tetanus (DPT), polio, influenza, measles/mumps/rubella (MMR) and chickenpox.

3. Understand prevention techniques for insect-carried diseases. African sleeping sickness (African trypanosomiasis) occurs in rural southern African countries. Dengue, leishmaniasis, filariasis and river blindness (onchocerciasis) occur in Africa. Wear long sleeves, long pants and hats when outdoors. Use insect repellent and sleep under netting when indoors. Stay indoors during dawn and dusk, the peak biting times.

4. Check the itinerary. Neither Namibia nor most of its neighbors are in the yellow fever endemic zone. Angola, the exception, is in the yellow fever endemic zone. A yellow fever vaccination certification is not required unless arriving from a country where yellow fever is present. If traveling to Namibia from a yellow fever area, an International Certification of Vaccination (ICV) for yellow fever is required. The certificate must be issued at least 10 days before arrival and is good for 10 years.

5. Begin the immunization process early at least 4 to 6 weeks before departure. Immunization requirements change often. The CDC website has updated information on recommended and required vaccinations for Namibia. The CDC recommends hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, rabies, and polio.

Tips & Warnings

• Talk to the doctor about immunizations appropriate for young children.

• The CDC recommends seeing a medical doctor who specializes in travel medicine. A list of travel medicine clinics appears on the CDC website.

• 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 Namibian travel.

• Talk to the doctor about other medications, including those bought over-the-counter.

• Always tell the doctor about a suppressed immune system or if you're pregnant or breast-feeding. This may alter the immunization procedures.

Resources

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