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Zambia Travel Health Guide

High risk

Zambia carries a CDC Level 1 travel health notice. Malaria risk exists throughout Zambia. Key travel vaccines: COVID-19, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B.

Overall risk

High risk

Malaria

Present

Best time to visit

Year-round

Recommended vaccines

Routine Vaccines

Make sure you're up-to-date on all routine vaccines including chickenpox, tetanus, flu, MMR, polio, and shingles.

Recommended

COVID-19

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

Recommended

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A vaccine is recommended for all travelers to Zambia age 1 year and older, including infants 6-11 months.

Recommended

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B vaccine is recommended for travelers under 60 years old. Those 60 and older may also get vaccinated.

Recommended

Measles

Measles cases are rising worldwide. All travelers should be fully vaccinated with MMR vaccine, including infants 6-11 months.

Recommended

Typhoid

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

Recommended

Cholera

Cholera vaccination may be considered for some travelers. Cholera is rare in travelers but transmission is widespread in Zambia.

Situational

Monkeypox

Monkeypox vaccine is recommended for travelers who may engage in certain high-risk activities. Get vaccinated at least 6 weeks before travel if possible.

Situational

Rabies

Rabies is present in dogs and wildlife in Zambia. Consider pre-exposure vaccination if you'll be around animals or in remote areas where treatment may not be readily available.

Situational

Yellow Fever

Yellow fever vaccine is generally not recommended for travel to Zambia, but is required if coming from countries with yellow fever risk.

Situational

Disease risks

Malaria risk

Malaria is present in this destination. Prophylaxis medication is recommended.

Malaria risk exists throughout Zambia. Take prescription antimalarial medication as recommended by your doctor.

Emergency numbers

Police

991

Medical / Ambulance

991

Fire

993

U.S. Embassy

+260-211-357-000

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Sources: CDC Travelers' Health · WHO International Travel and Health. Last updated 2026-07-31. Health conditions and entry rules change — verify with the CDC, WHO and your destination’s authorities before travel. This page is informational and not a substitute for advice from a travel-medicine provider.