Vaccinations South Africa

For many travellers, South Africa is a destination high on the bucket list. From safaris and impressive nature to vibrant cities such as Cape Town. During a round trip, national parks are often combined with coastalareas and other regions. 

Health risks can vary considerably by region. In some areas, for example, there is an increased risk of mosquito-borne diseases, while other regions have different health considerations. Good preparation is therefore important. 

At our Travel Clinic in Rotterdam, you will receive advice based on your travel itinerary and activities. This way, you can travel with confidence and make the most of your trip. 

 

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Which vaccinations do you need for South Africa? 

For South Africa, the following vaccinations are recommended in most cases: 

  • DTP (diphtheria, tetanus and polio)
  • Hepatitis A 

There are also general recommendations: 

  • Measles (MMR), especially if you have not previously been vaccinated 

Depending on your trip, additional vaccinations may be required: 

  • Hepatitis B (for longer stays or risk contact) 
  • Rabies (if there is a risk of animal bites) 
  • Tuberculosis (in some cases, depending on your situation) 

Which vaccinations you need exactly depends on your itinerary, length of stay and activities. 

Are vaccinations mandatory for South Africa? 

Yellow fever does not occur in South Africa. 

Please note: 

  • Are you travelling from a country where yellow fever occurs, or have you had a stopover there lasting more than 12 hours? 
  • Then a yellow fever vaccination is mandatory.
  • This must have been administered at least 10 days before arrival. 

Is malaria a risk in South Africa? 

Malaria occurs in South Africa, but only in certain areas: 

  • There is no malaria in major cities and many tourist areas
  • In some regions (such as parts of the northeast), malaria does occur 

Whether you need malaria tablets depends on your itinerary and personal situation. 

Protection against mosquitoes is essential, especially between sunset and sunrise. In addition to malaria, other mosquito-borne diseases may also occur, such as dengue, chikungunya and Zika virus. 

Travel healthy to South Africa 

In addition to vaccinations, there are other health risks to consider: 

  • Mosquito-borne diseases (such as dengue, chikungunya and Zika)
  • Contact with animals (rabies risk from mammals)
  • Schistosomiasis (through fresh surface water)
  • Tuberculosis (increased risk in certain situations)
  • Altitude sickness (when staying above 2,500 metres) 

Good hygiene, mosquito protection and avoiding risky situations are important. 

When should you get vaccinations for South Africa? 

We recommend making an appointment 4 to 6 weeks before departure. Some vaccinations require multiple doses. 

Are you travelling at the last minute? Please contact us anyway. In many cases, there is still a lot we can do. 

Why choose Corporate Travel Clinic?

  • For private individuals and business travellers
  • Originating from the Harbour Hospital and Institute for Tropical Diseases
  • More than 100 years of accumulated knowledge and experience in travel medicine
  • Personal advice and always according to the latest guidelines of the Landelijk Coördinatiecentrum Reizigersadvisering (LCR)
  • LCR-certified
  • Centrally located in Rotterdam
  • Our vaccination clinic is easily accessible by public transport and has good parking facilities
  • No waiting times. You can always get an appointment quickly
  • Family appointments possible

 

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Want to know more?

Do you have questions about vaccinations, malaria or your trip to South Africa? Then also take a look at our FAQ.