Recommended Vaccinations
Check your medical history to see if you have already received some of the recommended or required vaccines.
It is advised that you see a doctor or travel clinic that has a special focus on tropical diseases and ask them if there are any additional suggestions based on your age, health or medical history.
It can take a bit of time to get all the recommended vaccinations; it is advisable to begin as soon as you confirm your travel dates.
Important Vaccinations for Tanzania and Zanzibar
Yellow Fever
Despite the long list of recommended vaccines, Tanzania has only one compulsory vaccination: Yellow Fever.
Tanzania has no recorded case of Yellow Fever and efforts to ensure this superb record mean that all visitors from countries that have a risk of Yellow Fever must present vaccination certificates upon entry.
However, travelers from non-risk countries have reported that they have been asked at random to present proof at international airports or border crossings, also. To prevent any delays it is recommended to receive the vaccination and be prepared to show evidence with a vaccination card or certificate.
The vaccination should be acquired a minimum of 10 days before travel.
A certificate of vaccination for Yellow Fever will be necessary for arrival from Kenya or other neighboring East African Countries, and if you have traveled recently in any other areas at risk of Yellow Fever, including South America and parts of Asia.
Malaria
The risk of contracting Malaria in Tanzania is decreasing every year, however, travelers often visit some of the areas where it remains a risk. This fever is passed from an infected human to another through a carrier: the female mosquito. Hence, it is important to avoid mosquitoes and protect oneself by using repellants (DETA 20-30%) and sleeping under a mosquito net.
While there is no vaccine against Malaria, there are special medicines to prevent Malaria: Malarone, Doxycycline, Lariam (Mefloquine) and more. Please consult with your doctor before beginning any of these.
If you have any of the following symptoms while in Tanzania or upon your return to your home country, attend a health clinic or see your doctor as soon as possible: fever, chills, vomiting or diarrhea.