How to Get Immunizations for Africa

Africa is the second largest continent in the world, made up of diverse geographic regions and climates. Certain preventable illnesses are widespread in regions of Africa where inadequate sanitation methods and poverty exist. Learn what immunizations you need before traveling to Africa.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Cholera vaccine waiver
• International certificate of vaccination

1. Plan out your trip's itinerary. Know what African countries you are visiting and the length of your visit to obtain specific vaccinations. Check the Center for Disease Control (CDC) website for needed vaccinations.

2. Visit your physician to review status of all childhood immunizations. These vaccines often require a second shot or boost as an adult. Get updates for polio, typhoid and other domestic vaccinations at this time. Receive anti-malaria pills and take exactly as recommended.

3. Consult with a travel health expert. Gain advice on specific immunizations needed for travel in the region of Africa you plan on visiting. Recommend vaccines include those for rabies, yellow fever, typhoid and meningococcal.

4. Schedule immunizations at least eight weeks in advance. Some immunizations take time to become effective or require several doses.

5. Receive a waiver for the cholera vaccine. Local officials may require proof of cholera vaccine though it isn't required for traveling and is not available in the US. Receive a doctor's waiver to excuse you from this requirement.

6. Have your doctor complete an International Certificate of Vaccination (ICV) to show immunization against yellow fever. This ICV is required for entrance in most African countries and may be needed to enter countries after leaving Africa.

Tips & Warnings

• Always review country specific travel warnings and alerts at The U.S. Department of State.
• Some immunizations needed for travel in Africa are unsafe for young children and pregnant women.
• The CDC does not recommend pregnant women travel to sub-Saharan Africa because of the risk of Malaria infections.

Resources

• Use the CDC for guidance on immunizations
• US Department of State travel warnings
• View country specific disease outbreaks at WHO

[GetATrip]

on 2/22/2009 And I had all but forgotten the bitter-sweet taste of malaria pills! Thanks for this very solid and researched article. I am forwarding it to some friends I know travel those areas. All your articles give me an education--