South Africa Travel Health Guide

Routine Vaccines

Make sure all your routine vaccines are up to date, including chickenpox, tetanus, flu, MMR, polio, and shingles vaccines.

COVID-19

Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines before traveling.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A vaccine is recommended for most travelers to South Africa, including infants 6-11 months old.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B vaccine is recommended for travelers under 60 and may be considered for those 60 and older.

Measles

Measles cases are rising worldwide. Make sure you're fully vaccinated with MMR vaccine at least 2 weeks before travel, including infants 6-11 months.

Typhoid

Typhoid vaccine is recommended for most travelers to South Africa, especially if visiting rural areas or staying with friends and relatives.

Cholera

Cholera vaccine is not needed for South Africa as there is no active transmission.

Rabies

Rabies is present in dogs and wildlife in South Africa. Consider pre-exposure vaccination if you'll be around animals or in remote areas. Vaccines are available in most of the country if needed after exposure.

Yellow Fever

Yellow fever vaccine is not needed if traveling directly from the US, but is required if you're coming from a country with yellow fever risk or have a long layover in such countries.